Norway Government Proposes Tender

The government will continue the subsidy scheme for employment of seafarers in 2021 and will allow a total of NOK 1.9 billion for the scheme but will introduce a maximum ceiling in the scheme and phase out the subsidy model for cargo ships in NIS in foreign trade.The subsidy scheme for the employment of seafarers shall contribute to the recruitment of Norwegian seafarers and competitive conditions for Norwegian crews with ships under Norwegian flags. We must have a good system that helps to ensure our maritime competence but it cannot be without limits. Therefore we propose to reintroduce a maximum ceiling for subsidies says Minister of Trade and Industry Iselin Nyb V.The Government proposes to introduce a maximum ceiling of NOK 200000 per employee as a measure to limit further growth in the total expenditure on the subsidy scheme. The maximum ceiling is introduced for six of the models in the scheme petroleum ships in NOR construction ships in NIS ships in NOR passenger ships in NOR in foreign trade ships in NOR serving the Bergen-Kirkenes section and sailing ships in NOR.The additional models for petroleum vessels in NOR and construction vessels NIS in 2020 had a maximum ceiling of NOK 216000. This now changes to a maximum ceiling of NOK 200000.The subsidy model for ships in NIS has had a maximum ceiling of 26 of the subsidy basis. The government proposes to continue this maximum ceiling.The government also proposes to phase out the model for cargo ships in NIS in foreign trade. The scheme was established in 2017 and has had a lower effect on employment than was first assumed. Reiar teams that have previously received benefits through this scheme will be able to receive benefits through the general supplement model for ships in NIS.The subsidy scheme for the employment of seafarers is regulated and rights-based. Payments of subsidies are to a large extent linked to the indictment of seafarers who come under the subsidy scheme and their salary level. The government assumes that about 6500 seafarers will be affected by the changes in the subsidy scheme.The changes in the scheme will take effect on 1 January 2021 and will apply from the first term 2021.