Maritime Sector Regulatory Act No. 26 of 2016. Country/Territory Vanuatu Document type Legislation Date 2017 Source FAO, FAOLEX Long titleAn Act to regulate the maritime sector and for related matters. Subject Sea Keyword Court/tribunal Enforcement/compliance Harbour Institution Legal proceedings/administrative proceedings Marine area Maritime zone Navigation Offences/penalties Precautionary principle Protection of environment Geographical area Asia and the Pacific, Least Developed Countries, Melanesia, Oceania, Small Island Developing States, South Pacific Entry into force notes This Act commences on the day on which it is published in the Gazette. Abstract This Act lays down rules to impose a maritime safety regime throughout Vanuatu which ensures the safety of vessels and their crews and passengers, and which complies with all applicable international Conventions and obligations; ensure the effective regulation of ports and port facilities through the promotion of efficient and safe port operations and the protection of the rights of port users to access ports and port facilities on fair and equitable terms; enshrine the principles of independence and best practice in relation to the regulation of the maritime sector; and promote the security of shipping and port operations, and to facilitate compliance with all security related aspects of applicable international maritime conventions. This Act shall apply to any vessel registered or required to be registered or licensed under the Shipping Act; any vessel in Vanuatu waters or in a port or harbour in Vanuatu; any vessel on which Vanuatu seafarers are employed; and any other vessel, or class or type of vessel, which is prescribed by law as being under the regulatory authority of the Regulator. To this end, this Act sets forth provisions on the appointment, suspension and termination of the Regulator; establishment of the Office of the Regulator and the functions and powers of the Regulator; implementation and enforcement of a maritime convention or agreement; development of ports and port services; rules for ports and port facilities established by the Regulator; financial matters; appointment, powers and functions of authorized officers; offences and penalties; and the establishment and appointment of the Maritime Appeal Tribunal. In the event of a threat or damage to the marine environment or a risk to safety or health in the maritime sector, the Regulator or any person or agency having responsibilities under this Act shall apply the precautionary principle. The Minister may by Order make such Regulations as may be necessary or convenient to give effect to the provisions of this Act. Full text English Website www.paclii.org