CYIL Vol. 7, 2016

MARTINA FILIPPIOVÁ CYIL 7 ȍ2016Ȏ the observers recognized the usefulness of information from previous inspections and information obtained from EIES. However, they pointed out that the pre-seasonal report was sometimes lacking. Training of the personnel working at the stations was mentioned also by this inspection. That the topic of inspections deserves particular attention was recognized also on the basis of a Korean document in which a proposal for creation of a new model of inspections was made. The presented vision included enhanced logistic and human cooperation, improvement of current procedures, and it counted with a follow up procedure on inspections. 22 The Meeting agreed to establish an Intersessional Contact Group that would describe the practice of conducting inspections, and it would further look into options how to enhance the effective organisation of inspection. The Indian paper can serve as an example which confirms that the inspections are an effective tool for improvement of stations, as it shows which steps were taken in order to address the recommendations made by previous inspections. 23 Within the agenda item of tourism and non-governmental activities a heated debate took place. One of the reasons was the question of enhanced cooperation among Competent Authorities for tourism and non-governmental activities. Despite the existence of Resolution 3 (2004), according to which the Parties should consult each other during the evaluation of activities that are to be performed in Antarctica, it seems that this resolution is not fully abided by States. The Meeting therefore agreed to create a list of Competent Authorities on the ATS website which would be easily accessible and publicly available. In addition, a sub-forum for exchange of information among Competent Authorities will be created on the ATS website, so they can inform each other on requests for permission, authorisation and any other matter related to tourism and non-governmental activities. It was recognized that early communication among Competent Authorities is a key to prevent illegal and unauthorised activities. The report that raised concerns among all those present at the Meeting, was a British document on yachting activities in Antarctica. 24 Out of 41 yachts, one vessel was denied authorisation but had been seen in Antarctica. There were another two yachts that were supposedly without any authorisation, and it was not possible to find out whether another four yachts had or had not the authorisation; all of them had been sighted in Antarctica. The Meeting unanimously rejected the unauthorised yacht activities in Antarctica and expressed willingness to ensure that such activities were adequately investigated. concluded that joint scientific collaboration could further intensify. Another general recommendation aimed at improvements of waste management system. The inspection was also concerned with minimising risk of introduction of non-native species and diseases. 22 Information paper 102.

23 Background paper 5. 24 Working paper 34.

480