A training programme was conducted by Maldives Customs service in collaboration with Ministry of Environment and Energy today. The one day training programme for enforcement officers was held as part of the HCFC Phase-out Management Plan of the Montreal Protocol on substances that deplete the Ozone layer.

The workshop highlighted the implementation policy of the Montreal Protocol in the Maldives and procedures for controlling and monitoring imports of Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS). Along with classifying ODS and role of enforcement officers in their control, the programme concluded with practical exercises for participants. The objective of this workshop was to provide Customs officers with the necessary skills to monitor and control import of controlled and banned ODS, detection and prevention of illegal trade of these substances. 29 custom officers participated in today’s training programme.

At the closing ceremony held today Maldives Customs Service certificates were distributed to the participants by Senior Policy Executive, Dr Abdulla Naseer.

At today’s ceremony, Dr. Abdulla Naseer emphasized the role of customs officers in protecting the environment, by enforcing international treaties, such as the Montreal Protocol. He thanked the Maldives Customs Services for their continuous support in healing the ozone layer, and anticipates this enthusiasm in years to come. At the ceremony, Chief Superintendent of Maldives Customs Service, Fathmath Sodhaf highlighted the importance of these training programmes and that such achievements would not be found without collaborations as such.