iii. Review of Domestic Regulations The Fisheries Agency reviewed the alignment of Taiwan’s regulations with the ILO-C188 Convention and stated that areas such as crew composition and rest hours, crew rosters, regular wage payments, and provisions for accommodations and facilities already comply with the convention. Additionally, during the amendment process of regulations for employing foreign crew members, the agency integrated the convention’s content into management practices. These adjustments include: • • • • • • • Crew members must be at least 18 years old, pass a medical examination, and hold a seafarer certificate. Bilingual contracts must be signed and copies provided to the crew. Wages must be fully paid directly, with the shipowner bearing the handling fees. Shipowners must insure crew members with NT$1.5 million for death, NT$300,000 for medical expenses, and accident insurance coverage. No service fees may be charged to the crew by intermediaries. Shipowners are responsible for covering food and accommodation costs after the crew members depart for work. Inflatable life vests must be worn for work on deck. Following the review, the Fisheries Agency identified the need to adjust several regulations, including those under the Ministry of Transportation and Communications' “Ship Equipment Rules” and six regulations under the Ministry of Agriculture's jurisdiction: 1. Regulations on the Management of the Crew of Fishing Vessels 2. Regulations on the Authorization and Management of Overseas Employment of Foreign Crew Members 3. Regulations on the Authorization and Management of Taiwanese Fishing Vessel Owners Employing Mainland Chinese Crew for Offshore Placement and Transit 4. Standard Labor Contract for Overseas Employment of Foreign Crew 94