(1) The Minister may make such regulations as he or she considers necessary or expedient to provide for—
(a) the conditions of service of those persons serving in Saint Lucian ships and of Saint Lucian citizens serving in foreign ships;
(b) connected matters and, in particular, relating to—
(i) apprenticeship to sea service,
(ii) engagement by foreign ships of citizens of Saint Lucia,
(iii) the implementation of any international convention relating to the employment, welfare, security, certification or status of seafarers,
(iv) the avoidance of agreements made contrary to such regulations as may be prescribed,
(v) wages in general, and the rights related thereto of persons employed in Saint Lucian ships, securing safe working conditions, health and welfare for seafarers and apprentices employed in ships,
(vi) the accommodation to be provided for seafarers and apprentices on board ships, the location and standards of accommodation and all questions related to the accommodating of seafarers and apprentices on board; and
(c) the employment of persons under the age of 18 years.
(2) In making regulations under subsection (1) the Minister shall have due regard to the International Labour Organisation Convention 147 on Merchant Shipping (Minimum Standards).