Two months after the tragedy at Cape Greco, which resulted in the death of businessman Dimos Mavropoulos, when two boats crashed into the rocks due to strong winds and severe weather, the Deputy Ministry of Maritime Affairs is continuing discussions on regulations regarding the prohibition of vessel departures during adverse weather conditions.
The regulations have already been put out for public consultation and aim to fill a legislative gap concerning smaller vessels, for which the existing framework does not provide for corresponding restrictive measures.
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Speaking on the “Alpha Kalimera” program, Adonis Pavlidis, Senior Ship Inspector and Head of Policy and Strategic Planning at the Deputy Ministry of Shipping, clarified that the text is still in draft form and may be amended based on the recommendations that will be submitted.
Who is affected by the sailing ban?
As Mr. Pavlidis explained, the existing legislative framework allows for the imposition of restrictive measures on ships with a gross tonnage exceeding 300 units. The new regulations aim to fill the gap for vessels of smaller capacity by imposing restrictions when specific adverse weather conditions prevail. The criteria will take into account wind speed and sea conditions, and five categories of vessels are established based on their length, with different limits for each category.
To the Parliament before the end of the year
The public consultation will conclude on November 6, with the opportunity for all interested parties to submit their views. Subsequently, the text will be finalized, taking into account the suggestions submitted, and will be sent to the Legal Service for legal review. It will then be submitted to the Council of Ministers for approval and forwarded to the House of Representatives for debate and final approval. The Deputy Ministry of Shipping aims to have the regulations submitted to the House of Representatives by December.
Anchorage areas are also under scrutiny
At the same time, a separate process regarding anchorages is underway, following the establishment of a special committee by decision of the Council of Ministers. According to Mr. Pavlidis, consultations are continuing with all stakeholders to examine the relevant issues.
