For those that accept the responsibility of saving lives at sea, #training is an essential part of the role.
Take a look at this video, showing @RNLI lifeboat crew during simulated storm conditions in our sea survival pool. #seasurvival#nmciservicespic.twitter.com/kkWZONb9e2
The National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI) will host a hybrid conference/webinar on Friday 4 March 2022 entitled ‘Our Offshore Renewable Energy Opportunity – Is Ireland Ready?’. The conference, sponsored by Simply Blue Group, will bring together representatives from across Ireland’s maritime and supply chain workforce to explore their preparedness to the Offshore renewables’ opportunity.
Capt Brian FitzGerald, Simply Blue Group, Dr Val Cummins, Simply Blue Group, Michael McGrath, Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Cormac Gebruers, Head of College, NMCI and Mark O’Reilly, Fishery Liaisons Officer at the launch of the conference ‘Our Offshore Renewable Energy Opportunity – Is Ireland Ready?’.
The conference will seek specifically to put the spotlight on the qualifications and certifications for the fishing industry to ensure it is fit for the dual purpose of keeping fishermen fishing, while simultaneously ensuring that our coastal communities mariners and infrastructure are best placed to contribute to and benefit from this developing maritime industry.
Minister for Agriculture and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue will open the event, which will be Chaired by Feargal Keane from RTE Radio 1 programme ‘Seascapes’. Speakers include Noel Cunniffe, CEO of Wind Energy Ireland, Dr Alan Power, Assistant Principal, Labour Market and Skills Unit, Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, as well as Dr Val Cummins, Simply Blue Group, Damien Turner (IS&WFPO), Wind Europe, and a representative from BIM will participate.
Among the topics for discussion are the Policy Regime for Renewable Energy; the Expert Group on Future Workforce Skills Report on the Low Carbon Economy; A Developer Case Study – Floating Offshore Wind off Ireland’s Coasts; Co-existence of Offshore Renewable Energy with the Fishing Industry; and the Future opportunities for Ireland’s Fishing Industry.
Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Michael McGrath TD said: “The Government is committed to Ireland achieving its ambitious 2030 targets of generating 5GW of offshore wind and 80% renewables as a critical element of our national strategy to address climate change. The enactment of the Maritime Area Planning Bill will be central to this strategy. Of equal importance will be ensuring we have the requisite skills in the maritime and supply chain workforce to realise the full potential of this exciting opportunity for our coastal communities. This conference, bringing together a wide range of stakeholders will be an excellent showcase for the potential of this rapidly evolving sector.”
Speaking about the event, Captain Brian Fitzgerald, Director of External Affairs and Stakeholder Liaison, Simply Blue Group said “As Ireland struggles to meet the challenges of climate change, and fishing communities struggle with an unknown future, offshore renewable energy developments will have a far greater chance of delivering a sustainable future for all, including the incentivization of our youth to get involved, if the solutions are co-created. Ireland needs its best team on the field.”
Cormac Gebruers, Head of College, NMCI, said “We look forward to hosting this significant discussion for the maritime community. We hope the event will awaken Ireland’s mariners to an exciting and co-existing future that sees a thriving and growing fishing industry working in harmony with Ireland meeting its climate action targets.”
Mark O’Reilly, MD Fishery Liaisons said “The stakeholders most affected by Ireland’s development of its ocean wealth are those in our fishing industry and associated coastal communities. It is well known that they face increasing challenges and fears for the future. In the areas suitable for offshore wind development, nobody knows the sea and the seabed better than the fishers that work there. The sensible approach is for the industry and developers to work together to harness the possibilities from offshore wind.”
When it comes to booking your STCW Refresher Training you may have some questions regarding cert validity, course prerequisites or which route to choose. Read the below to see if your question has been answered. If not, please do call our NMCI Services Office on +353 21 433 5609 or email reception@nmci.ie
Question: Will my COC alone suffice to gain entry onto the refresher courses?
No, we cannot accept a COC in lieu of your STCW certificates.
It is a requirement we sight each individual STCW certificate in advance of the course.
Question: My IMA certificates are out of date, can I attend the course?
If you have not completed either the training course or updated training course within the five-year window then the updated proficiency route shall not be available, with the current exception of those candidates covered by Marine Notice 14 of 2020 which remains valid until 31/10/2021.
Allowing for any exceptional circumstance a candidate may apply to the IMA office for consideration.
If successful we will require evidence of this in writing from the Irish Maritime Administration.
Question: My MCA certificates are out of date can I attend the course?
If you have not completed either the training course or updated training course within the five-year window then the updated proficiency route shall not be available, with the current exception of those candidates covered by
“CORONAVIRUS (Covid-19) Contingency Plan and Guidelines for the services provided to Seafarers and Shipowners by the MCA”
If the above applies we will require evidence of this in writing from the MCA. Email exams@mcga.gov.uk
Question: My certificates are in date; however, I do not have a discharge book, I do not have entries on a discharge book to reflect six months sea time in the past five years.
We will not accept letters in lieu of discharge book entries. If you do not have six months sea time in the past five years and your certificates are in date you are eligible for the Long Route Updating Training.
Question: Will you accept MCA certificates issued after December 2020?
We cannot accept certificates issued by an approved MCA training facility after the 31st of December 2020 at this time. Certificates issued prior to this date remain acceptable.
Question: My certificates are out of date, and I have been informed that I am not eligible for an extension what can I do?
You must now undertake the full Initial Basic Safety Training Suite.
Personal Survival Techniques: 1 Day
Proficiency in Fire: 3 Days
Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats: 5 Days
Advanced Fire: 5 Days
Question: I have already booked and paid for my refresher training and do not satisfy the prerequisites what will I do?
You must contact us without delay to facilitate a refund if it applies.
To book your refresher training and read more on the required course prerequisites please click here.
SEFtec NMCI Offshore DAC welcomes applications for the position of Administrator on a part-time basis, 15 hours per week.
Description of the Position
This is a part time position 15 hours per week.
Reporting to the Operations Manager of SEFtec NMCI Offshore DAC, the Administrator is a member of the core Team providing administration for NMCI Services and its associated joint venture companies SNO DAC & GTSS DAC.
Location: NMCI, Ringaskiddy, Co Cork
Company: SEFtec NMCI Offshore DAC
Company background;
SEFtec NMCI Offshore are global leaders in the delivery of Maritime and Offshore training courses.
Based at the National Maritime College of Ireland we are a dynamic company, which is growing year on year.
We are the leading provider of professional Maritime, Offshore Training & Consultancy. Our strategy is to advance the industry and develop the skills of professionals through the provision of Training and expert Consultancy of the highest standard.
Our goal is to achieve and deliver excellence to our existing and future customer base. All of our
clients are trained by quality professional Instructors and lecturers.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities.
The Part Time administrator’s responsibilities include but are not limited to the following;
Receive inbound calls and emails from current and new customers/companies.
Supports the administration process from booking through to certification of courses.
Responsible for classroom/facility bookings for scheduled and bespoke course bookings.
Responsible for travel templates and organising client accommodation & transfers ahead of courses or board meetings.
Preparing administration files for instructors before beginning course.
Put together and deliver course packs where appropriate.
Ensure course packs are complete and filed.
Prepare scripts/handouts for courses.
Ensure all relevant communications, records and data are updated and recorded;
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry developments and updates;
Create trust and confidence when building a rapport with customers to effectively close each booking and retain customer loyalty, this includes reception duties for course registration.
Meet & greet delegates at reception before each course.
Represent Commercial Division and NMCI by ensuring each customer receives a friendly and engaging and efficient experience;
Compile reports as and when required by the Management Team;
Work as part of a team supporting colleagues where necessary;
Report any non-conformances to Management immediately in order to ensure that corrective action is carried out to prevent recurrence and insure continuous improvement.
Adhere to strict data protection and confidentiality laws;
Participate in any required training.
Liaising with instructors and management to support the planning of all commercial courses
Liaising with Lecturers, instructors to co-ordinate the efficient running of courses.
Liaising with Finance regarding pricing of courses.
Liaising with various individuals from companies on course details, numbers, requests etc.
Liaising with catering staff & process canteen function forms.
Be responsible for the replenishment of stationary at the NMCIS Ops office and postal duties.
Fill out purchase requisitions where appropriate & required.
Any other duties that may be assigned.
Requirements for Part Time Administrator
Essential:
3 years relevant admin experience
Good planning, organisational and communication skills.
Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills;
Excellent listening skills and the ability to ask probing questions, understand concerns, and overcome objections;
Strong work ethic and self-starter, able to effectively manage multiple priorities and adapt to change within a fast-paced business environment;
Must possess a professional and friendly attitude and be able to quickly develop a rapport with customers over the phone;
Ability to learn and navigate new software quickly;
Ability to type 30 wpm+;
Desirable:
ISO 9001 Certification & Auditing Skills
Salary: DOE
Immediate Start preferred.
Please forward your Cover Letter and CV to careers@nmci.ie using Part Time Administrator Application as the subject title.
“Virus now of international concern”- WHO” – The Irish Times
“UK warns against mass panic as race to halt outbreak intensifies” – The Guardian
“Crews marooned at sea” – The New York Times.
These were the viral headlines grabbing our attention around the globe in early 2020.
NMCI Services had wasted no time preparing. Throughout February 2020 we implemented the first of our enhanced infection control procedures with a particular focus on COVID-19.
We had real time data from our extensive network of international clients on the seriousness of COVID-19. Additionally we had staff operating overseas that were providing updates.
On March 11th 2020 the World Health Organization characterized COVID-19 as a pandemic.
On March 12th 2020 we safely brought home our staff from overseas.
That same day the Government announced the closure of all schools, colleges and childcare facilities until March 29th 2020.
We had until 6pm.
Staff, varying in all levels of digital knowledge, were within four hours oracles on OneDrive, Teams, Zoom and Skype (an achievement in itself).
The 29th of March came and went.
The team carried on with our reopening preps, updating and strengthening our procedures and risk assessments as Government Guidance and advice evolved.
We were ready, the “new normal” was now routine.
Ready, waiting and keenly aware that throughout the pandemic our trainees had to keep the ships at sea, energy flowing whether oil and gas or renewables and our emergency services were on duty throughout. We positioned ourselves so their essential training requirements could be met safely and without further delay.
Summer 2020 saw case numbers decrease, lockdown restrictions eased somewhat and life beginning to cautiously resume once again.
On August 31st the NMCI’s commercial division reopened, under strict safety protocols and with reduced class sizes we resumed essential training.
The new normal
NMCI Services had set sail and was safely navigating through the new normal.
Jim Morrissey, a NMCI Services trainer, explains how the team worked together to ensure the safety of all students, delegates and staff within NMCI Services.
“At the start of COVID-19 we really had to learn quickly as the situation and restrictions/safeguards were changing daily. We were required to put procedures in place which were robust enough to protect students, delegates and staff. It was difficult at the start as nobody had experienced anything like this before, but we coped well and adapted our safe operating procedures to comply with public health guidelines.”
Malcolm Meade, SEFtec NMCI Offshore Instructor, explains how workforce safety was a priority for the team:
“When the college shut down in March of last year not only did it effect my colleagues and I, it also effected the essential workers we provide courses for. It also meant that some workers for the energy sector were unable to refresh the safety training required for employment both nationally and internationally.
It was clear from the start we had to find a way to provide these courses to accommodate the workforce.
There was a phenomenal behind the scenes effort made by all of our staff during the first lock down and after, to ensure before, during and after every course the safety of the instructors and delegates were of paramount importance.
I believe these are trying times for all and we all have a part to play in overcoming this pandemic. A safe working space allows us and our clients to remain safe while providing a necessary service to the renewable energy sector.”
New protocols involved temperature checks and completing COVID-19 health declarations forms on arrival, placing hand sanitising stations in all areas, introducing a one way pedestrian system in our corridors, limiting class sizes and contact time, and completing contract tracing forms for not only staff and delegates but on equipment used by all, to name a few.
The following message was received after a recent March 2021 FOET course:
“I want to thank you and the team for your excellent support in getting me though the FOET course yesterday. I thought it was a really professional teamwork effort from all of you at NMCI. I was really impressed. Well done on your covid-19 process too. Thank you especially for your admin support in the planning and execution stages. It was also nice to get out and meet people again.”
What hasn’t changed?
While there is enormous focus placed on adhering to COVID-19 safety procedures, it is important to note that the attention given to each individual delegate has not changed. Timothy O’Riordan recently completed his FOET and sent the following message afterwards;
“I am writing this email to say a huge thank you and to express my gratitude to all involved.
As I am totally not comfortable under water, I was dreading the day that I would have to renew my certificate. Four years ago I also struggled with the underwater part but Cillian and the other divers coaxed me through it step by step. I think this time around was even worse for me as I was constantly thinking about what was to come but again I was coaxed through it and thankfully I completed it and survived !
I don’t think there is another training centre that would have as much patience and give as much support to a candidate such as myself and I really appreciate the time that was given to me.”
Attending a course with NMCI Services soon?
If you are attending a course with NMCI Services and have some questions, do contact our team in advance. We will be happy to discuss your training with you.
Our “COVID-19 NMCI Video” will give you an insight into what a typical day of training at the NMCI looks like at present.
Take the time to watch this video in advance of your arrival to ensure you know what to expect.
It’s been a very tough year for many. As we get closer to Christmas time the festive lights and plans to see family help create an air of optimism again. But for some, this time of year can be a struggle due to Seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Taking care of ourselves and loved ones is vital, especially in these COVID-19 times. It’s important to know how we might help a family member, crew member, colleague or friend, who may suffer from SAD.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that’s related to changes in seasons — SAD begins and ends at about the same times every year.
Symptoms
Feeling down most of the day, nearly every day
Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed
Having low energy
Having problems with sleeping – either oversleeping or not getting any
Experiencing changes in your appetite or weight
Feeling sluggish or agitated
Having difficulty concentrating
Causes
Your biological clock (circadian rhythm). The reduced level of sunlight in autumn and winter may cause winter-onset SAD. This decrease in sunlight may disrupt your body’s internal clock and lead to feelings of depression.
Serotonin levels. A drop in serotonin, a brain chemical (neurotransmitter) that affects mood, might play a role in SAD. Reduced sunlight can cause a drop in serotonin that may trigger depression.
Melatonin levels. The change in season can disrupt the balance of the body’s level of melatonin, which plays a role in sleep patterns and mood.
What can you do to counteract the effects?
Get outside. Take a long walk, eat lunch at a nearby park, or simply sit on a bench and soak up the sun. Even on cold or cloudy days, outdoor light can help — especially if you spend some time outside within two hours of getting up in the morning.
Make your environment sunnier and brighter.
Open blinds, trim tree branches that block sunlight to your home. Sit closer to bright windows while at home or in the office.
Exercise regularly. Exercise and other types of physical activity help relieve stress and anxiety, both of which can increase SAD symptoms.
Being more fit can make you feel better about yourself, too, which can lift your mood.
Speak with your GP if you have any questions about your mental health or to read more please visit the HSE website here.
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