Section 4: Functions and duties of Authority

4. Functions and duties of Authority (1) Subject to this Act, the Authority shall, as a landlord port— (a) provide and improve port infrastructure, superstructure, heavy equipment and related facilities; (b) provide marine services and navigating aids, and assist in sea rescue; (c) regulate and control— (i) shipping, navigation, dredging and other related matters in ports; [Issue 1] P14 – 4 Revised Laws of Mauritius (ii) the entry of vessels in ports, their stay, movements or operations in, and departure from ports, the loading, unloading and storage of cargo and containers and the landing and embarkation of passengers; and (iii) pollution and protection of the environment within ports, and the enhancement of safety and security; (d) provide for the welfare of employees, and of persons working or living on a vessel in a port; (e) enter into concession contracts for the provision of port and cargo handling services by qualified and licensed operators under such general terms and conditions as the Authority may determine; (f) promote the use, improvement and development of ports; (g) exercise licensing, regulating and controlling functions in respect of port and marine services not provided by the Authority; (h) implement Government port policies and keep them under review, and advise Government on all matters concerning the port sector, its facilities, services and related issues; and (i) regulate and control the development within ports in accordance with approved port master plans, and be the responsible authority for land use control in the port area with the power to lease land under such terms and conditions as the Authority may determine. (2) Nothing in subsection (1) shall be construed as limiting the power of the Authority to do any thing reasonably necessary for or incidental to the discharge of its functions of effective and economical management, planning and control of the ports of Mauritius. (3) The Authority may, as it thinks fit, engage in operations for the salvage of ships and cargo whether inside or outside ports.