The government has adopted a bill that will allow for the launch of a large-scale reform in the field of maritime and inland waterway transport
The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has approved a draft law on merchant shipping and inland waterways. The document paves the way for a large-scale reform of the public administration system in this area. This is reported by the Ministry of Development of Communities and Territories.
The draft law is entitled “On Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of Ukraine Relating to Merchant Shipping and Inland Waterway Navigation”.
“The powers of the Ministry of Development, the Shipping Administration, the Seaport Manager and the Seaport Captain are clearly delimited, which will eliminate conflicts of competence and establish personal responsibility for the safety of navigation,” the ministry noted.
The document provides for the implementation of a national single maritime window – digital platform for data exchange, which will simplify procedures, reduce the time for processing vessels in ports and reduce corruption risks.
In addition, the draft law abolishes a number of redundant procedures and documents that are not provided for by international conventions or EU legislation.
“The document is part of the implementation of Ukraine’s obligations under the Association Agreement with the EU and the indicators of the Ukraine Facility initiative,” the department emphasized.
After approval by the government, the draft law will be submitted for consideration by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, which will allow for the start of a large-scale reform of maritime and inland waterway transport management.
