(1) The object of the Authority is to regulate, monitor and co-ordinate activities in the maritime industry.

(2) For the purpose of achieving its object under subsection (1), the Authority shall perform the following functions:

(a) implement the provisions of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1963 (Act 183);

(b) ensure the safety of navigation:

(c) fulfill flag state and port state responsibilities in an effective and efficient manner, having due regard to international maritime conventions, instruments and codes;

(d) deal with matters pertaining to maritime search and rescue, and co-ordinate the activities of the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ports and Harbours Authority and any other body during search and rescue operations;

(e) regulate activities on shipping in the inland waterways including the safety of navigation in inland waterways;

(f) cause to be investigated maritime casualties and take appropriate action;

(g) oversee matters pertaining to the training, recruitment and welfare of Ghanaian seafarers;

(h) plan, monitor and evaluate training programmes of seafarers to ensure conformity with standards laid down by international maritime conventions;

(i) ensure in collaboration with such other public agencies and institutions as the Board of the Authority may determine the prevention of marine source pollution, protection of the marine environment and response to marine environment incidents;

(j) pursue the ratification or accession and implementation of international maritime conventions in conjunction with the appropriate Ministry;

(k) assess the manpower needs of the maritime sector for national planning purposes:

(l) liaise effectively with government agencies and institutions that deal with maritime transport and related transport matters for the purpose of achieving harmony in the maritime industry;

(m) initiate research into national maritime transport development for effective planning and co-ordination;

(n) ensure an efficient, cost effective and orderly provision of services in the shipping industry in line with Government policies;

(o) initiate action for the promotion, establishment and development of private shipping lines;

(p) advise on policies for the development and maintenance of maritime infrastructure such as ports and harbours in the country;

(q) advise the Government on maritime matters generally;

(r) regulate the activities of shipping agents, freight forwarders and similar shipping service providers; and

(s) perform functions incidental to the functions provided under this section.