The Department of Merchant Shipping has issued a circular informing stakeholders of changes to the procedures for amendment of certificates issued in accordance with Section 22(1) of the Protection of Cyprus Ships Against Acts of Piracy and Other Unlawful Acts Law 2012 – in particular, regarding the addition or deletion of ship security guards or firearms.(1)
In order to ensure a timely response, every application submitted by a private ship security company for the addition or deletion of private ship security guards or firearms to or from its certificate will be processed only if accompanied by the required supporting documents. The department requires a minimum of five working days from the date of submission of a complete and accurate application to examine it and issue an amended certificate. An amended certificate will be issued if all documentation submitted is accurate and correct and the relevant fees have been paid.
In accordance with Sections 12(1)(a) and 12(2)(a) of the law, a private ship security company can use the new security guards or firearms to provide security services on board a Cypriot ship only if it has received the amended certificate. The department will consider no applications for the use of services on board a Cypriot ship involving security guards or firearms that are not recorded on the private ship security company's certificate. Any company that intends to use new private ship security guards or firearms that are not already recorded on its certificate must make all necessary arrangements for submission of the relevant application and supporting documents at least five working days before it intends to start providing the relevant services.
Footnote
(1) The circular is addressed to registered owners, bareboat charterers, managers, operators and masters of ships flying the Cyprus flag, and to approved private ship security companies.
Originally published by International Law Office
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