Commentary on Sections Pilotage Section 3: Pilotage Exemption certificates: suspension and revocation
14.Section 3 extends the circumstances in which a competent harbour authority can, by written notice, suspend or revoke a pilotage exemption certificate. The authority may do this if:
15.As an example, the previous legislation would not have permitted the immediate suspension of the certificate of a pilot if he were found to be temporarily incapable of navigating a ship due to being under the influence of alcohol. Such misconduct would fall under paragraph (c) above.
16.In order to suspend or revoke a certificate an authority must give written notice. The maximum period of suspension is 28 days but that may be extended for a further 28 days if the authority is considering whether to revoke it. A revocation must state the reasons for the revocation in writing and the holder of the certificate must be allowed a reasonable period to make representations. The authority will have the discretion to pay compensation to any person who has suffered, or is likely to suffer, loss as a result of the suspension or revocation of a certificate.