Reciprocal deal

Jamaica and Canada have signed a Reciprocal Recognition Agreement to enable seafarers from the two countries to work on ships sailing under the Jamaican or Canadian flags. Rear Admiral (retd) Peter Brady, director general of the Maritime Authority of Jamaica, stressed the importance of employing seafarers trained and certified according to the standards laid down by the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping Convention. He said: "This is critical because internationally trading ships operate at global standards required by international rules and measures promulgated in treaties or conventions by the IMO."