Milton Baron, technical officer Maritime training and human element section of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has disclosed that the world body has introduced four new model courses for fishing vessel personel.

Mr Baron was speaking at the opening of a five-day regional training of fisheries personel held for fishing vessel personel at the Paradise Suites hotel yesterday.

He pointed out that both the document for guidance and the model courses provide practical information and advice intended to help member states develop appropriate programmes to implement the provisions of the IMO instruments.

Concerning the five-day regional training, Mr Baron underscored that this was made possible by the valuable input and hardwork of many people.  He further expressed the appreciation of the IMO for the support and cooperation provided by the government of the  Gambia and the maritime administration and fisheries department.

These four model courses for fishing vessel personel were introduced by the IMO is in line with the 1995 Convention and the FAO/ILO/IMO document certification of fishing vessel personel.