S.L. 499.23 Art. 51Qualifications.

No person shall be permitted to serve as a Master, or a crew member on a vessel unless he holds a certificate of competency issued by the Authority, in accordance with the relevant requirements prescribed in the Code of Practice or such other qualifications as may be recognised by the Authority: Provided that a person who prior to the coming into force of these regulations was in possession of a special licence to perform the duties of master or an engine driver of a vessel in terms of the Mechanically Driven Boats (Passengers and Cargo) Regulations shall, within one year from the date of coming into force of these regulations, obtain a commercial vessel master certificate or commercial vessel engine driver certificate according to the Code of Practice, respectively: Provided also that the holder of any other qualification shall, within one year from the date of the coming into force of these regulations, obtain the appropriate qualifications under the requirements of the Code of Practice: Provided further that if within the five years immediately prior to the application for the relevant certificate, such a person has not served within the same capacity on a similar vessel for at least twelve months total service, the Authority may require him to undergo a further practical, written or oral test prior to being permitted to be employed on a commercial vessel.