GOVERNMENT GAZETTE · president or vice-president for the unexpired part of the period of officefor which his or her predecessor was elected. (3) If for any reason the president is

N$10.80 WINDHOEK-23April2012 No.4935

GOVERNMENT GAZETTEOF THE

REPUBLIC OF NAMIBIA

CONTENTSPage

GOVERNMENT NOTICE

No.110 PromulgationofGeoscienceProfessionsAct,2012(ActNo.3of2012),ofthe Parliament......................................................................................................................... 1

________________

Government Notice

OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER

No.110 2012

PROMULGATIONOFACTOFPARLIAMENT

ThefollowingActwhichhasbeenpassedbytheParliamentandsignedbythePresidentintermsoftheNamibianConstitutionisherebypublishedintermsofArticle56ofthatConstitution.

No.3of2012: GeoscienceProfessionsAct,2012._______________

2 GovernmentGazette23April2012 No.4935

Act No. 3, 2012 GEOSCIENCE PROFESSIONS ACT, 2012

ACTTo provide for the establishment, constitution, powers and functions of

the Geoscience Council of Namibia; to provide for the registration of geoscientists; to specify the education and training and qualifications of persons practising the geoscience professions; to provide for control over the practising of geoscience professions; and to provide for incidental matters.

(Signed by the President on 2 April 2012)

ARRANGEMENTOFSECTIONS

PART1PRELIMINARY

1. Definitions.

PART2GEOSCIENCECOUNCILOFNAMIBIA

2. EstablishmentoftheGeoscienceCouncilofNamibia3. ObjectivesofCouncil4. ConstitutionofCouncil5. Co-optedmembers6. PersonsdisqualifiedfrombeingmembersofCouncil7. Tenureofofficeofmembersandfillingofvacancies8. VacatingofofficebymembersofCouncil9. Presidentandotheroffice-bearersofCouncil10. Functions,dutiesandpowersofCouncil11. MeetingsandproceduresatmeetingsofCouncil12. CommitteesofCouncil13. Remuneration14. FundsofCouncil15. Bankingaccount16. Bookkeepingandauditing17. ReportstoMinister18. SecretaryandstaffofCouncil

PART3GEOSCIENCEPROFESSIONS:QUALIFICATIONSFORREGISTRATIONAND

REGISTRATIONASGEOSCIENTIST

19. Geoscienceprofessions20. Registrationofgeoscientists21. Recognitionofqualifications22. Certificateofregistration23. Cancellationofregistration24. Suspensionduetoillness25. Effectofcancellationorsuspensionfromregister26. Returnofcertificateofregistration27. Restorationofnametoregister

No.4935 GovernmentGazette23April2012 3


28. Keepingofregisterandstatusofregister29. Registrationfees30. Prohibitionofuseoftitleunlessregistered

PART4DISCIPLINARYMATTERS

31. Codeofprofessionalconduct32. Unprofessionalconduct33. DisciplinarypowersofCouncil34. Institutionofunprofessionalconductproceedings35. InquirybyCouncil36. Effectofinquiryproceedingsoncivilorcriminalliability37. SummoningofpersonsbyCouncil38. Penaltiesforunprofessionalconduct39. Penaltiesforfalseevidence

PART5GENERALPROVISIONS

40. Appealagainstcertaindecisions41. Regulations42. Rectificationoferrors43. Restrictionofliability44. Delegationofpower45. Shorttitleandcommencement

SCHEDULE

BE IT ENACTEDbytheParliamentoftheRepublicofNamibiaasfollows:

PART IPRELIMINARY

Definitions

1. InthisAct,unlessthecontextotherwise indicates;

“annualfee”meanstheannualregistrationfeecontemplatedinsection29(1);

“Council”meanstheGeoscienceCouncilofNamibiaestablishedintermsofsection2;

“financialyear”meansthefinancialyearoftheCouncilreferredtoinsection16(4);

“geoscience”meansallscientificdisciplinesresearchingtheearthasawhole,including,butnotrestrictedto,itsorigin,structure,composition,historyandthenaturalprocessesthatresultedinitspresentstate;

“geoscienceprofession”meansanyoftheprofessionsreferredtoinsection19;

“geoscientist”meansanypersonconductingworkofageosciencenaturebyvirtueoftheireducation,trainingandexperience;



“Minister”meanstheMinisterresponsibleforminesandenergy;

“Ministry”meanstheministryresponsibleforminesandenergy;

“NQA”means theNQA established by theNamibianQualificationsAuthorityAct,1996(ActNo.29of1996);

‘”prescribed”meansprescribedbyregulationmadeunderthisAct;

“register”whenusedasanounmeanstheregisterreferredtoinsection28andwhenusedasaverbmeanstoregisterasageoscientistascontemplatedinsection20;

“registered person”means a person registered in terms of section 20 in any of thegeoscienceprofessions;

“secretary”meansthesecretaryof theGeoscienceCouncilofNamibiareferredtoinsection18;

“thisAct”includesanyregulationornoticemadeorissuedunderthisAct;and

“unprofessionalconduct”means improperordishonourableorunworthyconduct,orconductwhich,whenregardishadtotheprofessionoftheregisteredperson,isimproperordisgracefulordishonourableorunworthy,andincludesactsoromissionsspecifiedintermsofsection32(1).

PART2GEOSCIENCECOUNCILOFNAMIBIA

Establishment of the Geoscience Council of Namibia

2. There is established a juristic body to be known as theGeoscienceCouncilofNamibia.

Objectives of Council

3. TheobjectivesoftheCouncilareto-

(a) promote geoscience professions in Namibia by providing a self-regulatory juristicbody, registrationwithwhichconfirmsaqualifiedgeoscientistashavingarecognisedlevelofprofessionalcompetenceandsubscribingtoacodeofprofessionalconduct;

(b) controlandexerciseauthorityinrespectofallmattersaffectinglevelsof competence and codes of conduct with respect to geoscienceprofessions;

(c) promotetheinterestsofgeoscienceasaprofessioninitsentiretybyanyothermeansavailabletotheCouncil;and

(d) communicatetotheMinisterinformationonmattersofpublicinterestacquiredbytheCouncilinthecourseoftheperformanceofitsfunctionsunderthisAct.



Constitution of Council

4. (1) ThefirstCouncilwhichmustholdofficeforaperiodofoneyear consists of fivemembers appointed by theMinister, whomust, subject to theprovisionsofsection6,belongtoanyofthegeoscienceprofessions.

(2) SubsequentCouncilsmustconsistoffivemembersappointedby theMinisterofwhom–

(a) four are elected in the prescribed manner by persons registered asgeoscientists;and

(b) oneisastaffmemberasdefinedinthePublicServiceAct,1995(ActNo.13of1995)whomustbearegisteredgeoscientistdesignatedbytheMinisterfromamongpersonsinfull-timeemploymentofthepublicservice.

(3) AssoonaspossibleaftermembersoftheCouncilhavebeenappointed–

(a) in case of an appointment made under subsection (1), theMinistermustcausethenamesofthemembersoftheCouncilandthedateofcommencementoftheirtermofofficetobepublishedintheGazette;or

(b) in case of an appointmentmade under subsection (2), the secretarymustcausethenamesofthemembersoftheCouncilandthedateofcommencementoftheirtermofofficetobepublishedintheGazette.

Co-opted members

5. (1) TheCouncilmay,subjecttosubsection(2),nominateoneormoreregisteredpersonstobeappointedbytheMinisterasco-optedmembersof theCouncil.

(2) Theco-optedmembersreferredtoinsubsection(1)–

(a) serveasco-optedmembersforaperiodofoneyearbutareeligibleforre-appointment;

(b) havenovotingpoweronanyorallmattersdiscussedbytheCouncil;

(c) maynotbecountedwhendeterminingquorumsoftheCouncil;and

(d) must be excluded from any meeting of the Council wherein anyprofessionaldisciplinarymatterrelatingtoanyregisteredgeoscientistisbeingdiscussed.

Persons disqualified from being members of Council

6. ApersonmaynotbeappointedasamemberoftheCouncilifheorshe–

(a) isnotaNamibiancitizenorapersonlawfullyadmittedtoNamibiaforpermanentresidencetherein;



(b) hasbeende-registeredintermsofthisActorhasallowedhisorherregistrationlapse;or

(c) isdisqualifiedfromregistrationintermsofthisActbyvirtueofsection20(4).

Tenure of office of members and filling of vacancies

7. (1) Subjecttosubsection(2),amemberoftheCouncil,otherthanamemberappointedintermsofsection4(2)(b),holdsofficeforaperiodofthreeyearsfrom thedateofhisorherappointment,butmust,on theexpirationof suchperiod,continuetoholdofficeforafurtherperiod,notexceedingthreemonths,untilhisorhersuccessorhasbeenappointed.

(2) IfamemberoftheCouncildiesorvacateshisorherofficebeforetheexpirationoftheperiodforwhichheorshewasappointed,theMinistermay,subjecttosection6,appointasuitablepersontofillthevacancyuntilapersonhasbeenappointedasamemberinaccordancewithsection4.

(3) Any member whose period of office has expired is eligible forre-appointment but amember of theCouncilmaynot hold office formore than sixconsecutiveyears.

Vacating of office by members of Council

8. AmemberoftheCouncilvacateshisorheroffice,ifheorshe-

(a) becomessubjecttoanydisqualificationcontemplatedinsection6;

(b) inwritingunderhisorherhand,addressedanddeliveredtothesecretaryoftheCouncil,resignsfromhisorheroffice;

(c) has been absent from more than two consecutive meetings of theCouncilwithoutitsleave;

(d) is convicted of an offence involving dishonesty and is sentencedtherefortoatermofimprisonmentwithouttheoptionofafine;

(e) isremovedfromtheCouncilinthepublicinterestbytheMinisterafterconsultationwiththeCouncil;or

(f) wasdesignatedundersection4(2)(b)andheorsheceasestobeinthefull-timeemploymentofthepublicservice,oriftheMinisterterminateshisorherdesignation.

President and other office-bearers of Council

9. (1) At the firstmeeting of every newly constitutedCouncil andthereafter as the occasion arises, themembers of theCouncilmust fromamong themembersreferredtoinsection4(1)(a)electapresident,vice-presidentandsuchotheroffice-bearersasmayberequired,andthepresident,vice-presidentorsuchotheroffice-bearerholdsofficeduringhisorhertermofofficeasamemberoftheCouncil,unlessheorsheresignsorceasestobeamemberoftheCouncil.



(2) If the president or vice-president of the Council dies or vacates hisor her office before the expiration of the period contemplated in subsection (1), themembersoftheCouncilmustelectfromamongthemembersreferredtoinsection4(1)(a)apresidentorvice-president,asthecasemaybe,andthemembersoelectedactsaspresidentorvice-presidentfortheunexpiredpartoftheperiodofofficeforwhichhisorherpredecessorwaselected.

(3) Ifforanyreasonthepresidentisabsentorunabletoactaspresident,the vice-presidentmust performall the functions and exercise all the powers of thepresident.

(4) Ifboththepresidentandvice-presidentareabsentfromanymeeting,thememberspresentmustelectonefromtheirnumbertopresideatthatmeetingandthepersonsopresidingmayatsuchmeetingduringsuchabsenceperformthefunctionsandexercisethepowersofthepresident.

(5) Iftheofficeofanyoffice-bearerbecomesvacant,themembersoftheCouncilmustat thefirstmeetingaftersuchvacancyhasoccurred,electfromamongtheirnumberasuccessortotheoffice-bearer,andthemembersoelectedholdsofficefortheunexpiredportionoftheperiodofofficeofhisorherpredecessor.

(6) Anoffice-bearermayvacatehisorherofficewithoutterminatinghisorhermembershipoftheCouncil.

Functions, duties and powers of Council

10. (1) Inadditiontoanyotherfunctions,dutiesorpowersconferredontheCouncilbythisActorbyanyotherlaw,theCouncilhasthefollowingfunctions,dutiesandpowers-

(a) toregisteranypersonrequiredtoberegisteredintermsofthisAct;

(b) toremoveanynamefromtheregisterinaccordancewithsection23or,uponpaymentoftheprescribedfee,restoresuchnametosuchregisterinaccordancewithsection27;

(c) toappointexaminersandmoderators,conductexaminationsandgrantcertificates, andcharge such fees in respectof suchexaminationsorcertificatesasmaybeprescribed;

(d) keepandmaintainaregisterascontemplatedinsection28;

(e) todecideupontheformofregisterandcertificatestobekept,maintainedorissuedunderthisAct,thereviewingthereofandthemannerinwhichalterationstheretomaybeeffected;

(f) toconsideranymatteraffectingthegeoscienceprofessionsandmakerepresentations or take such action in connection therewith as theCouncildeemsadvisable;

(g) uponapplicationbyanyperson, to recognise inaccordancewith theregulations of the NQA any qualifications held by such person inrespectofthegeoscienceprofessions(whethersuchqualificationshave



beenobtainedinNamibiaorelsewhere)asbeingequal,eitherwhollyorinpart,toanyprescribedqualifications,whereuponsuchpersonmay,totheextenttowhichsuchqualificationshavebeensorecognised,bedeemedtoholdsuchprescribedqualifications;

(h) todeterminetherequirementsthatpersonsapplyingtoberegisteredandregisteredpersonsunderthisActmustcomplywithtomaintaintheirregistration;

(i) subject to section 12(4), to consider and give its final decisions onrecommendationsmadebyacommitteeoftheCouncil;

(j) toappointanddismisspersonnelanddeterminetheremunerationandotherconditionsofservicewhich itdeemsfitfor thecarryingoutofCouncilfunctions;

(k) advisetheMinisteronanymatterrelatingtothegeoscienceprofessions;

(l) toperformsuchotherfunctionsasmaybeprescribedinrespectoftheCouncil;and

(m) generallytodoallsuchthingsasCouncildeemsnecessaryorexpedienttoachievetheobjectivesofthisAct.

(2) Toenableittoperformthefunctionsanddutiesreferredtoinsubsection(1)orinthisAct,theCouncilisempoweredto-

(a) acquire by purchase, lease, exchange, or otherwise, anymovable orimmovablepropertyoranyinterestinmovableorimmovableproperty;

(b) sell, lease, exchange, pledge, mortgage or otherwise deal with anymovableorimmovablepropertyoftheCouncil;

(c) enterintocontractsandtodecidethemannerinwhichcontractsmustbeenteredintoonbehalfoftheCouncil;

(d) makeoracceptdonations;

(e) borrowmoneyonthesecurityoftheassetsoftheCounciloracceptandadministeranytrustordonation;

(f) collectorreceivemoneysduetotheCouncil;

(g) obtain information necessary to achieve its objects and perform itsfunctions, including requiring any registered person in writing tosubmit to theCouncilsuch informationas theCouncilmayconsidernecessary;and

(h) doallsuchthingsasitmayregardnecessaryorexpedientinordertoachievetheobjectsofthisAct.



Meetings and procedures at meetings of Council

11. (1) ThefirstmeetingoftheCouncilmustbeheldatsuchtimeandplaceastheMinistermaydetermine,andthereaftermeetingsofCouncilmustbeheldatsuchtimesandvenuesasthepresidentoftheCouncilmaydetermine,exceptthattheCouncilmustmeetatleasttwiceannually.

(2) ThepresidentoftheCouncilmustonreceiptofawrittenrequeststatingclearlythepurposeforwhichameetingistobeconvenedandsignedby-

(a) amajorityofmembersoftheCouncil;or

(b) atleastone-thirdoftheregisteredpersons,

conveneaspecialmeeting,tobeheldwithin30daysafterthedateofreceiptofsuchrequest,onsuchdateandatsuchplaceasheorshemaydetermine;

(3) Themajorityof themembersof theCouncilconstituteaquorumforanymeetingoftheCouncil.

(4) ThedecisionofthemajorityofmembersoftheCouncilpresentatanymeetingoftheCouncilconstitutesadecisionofCouncil,andintheeventofanequalityofvotes,thepersonpresidingatsuchmeetinghasacastingvoteinadditiontohisorherdeliberativevote.

(5) NodecisiontakenbytheCounciloractperformedundertheauthorityoftheCouncilisinvalidbyreasononlyofavacancyontheCouncilorofthefactthatapersonwhowasnotentitledtositasamemberoftheCouncilsatasamemberatthetimewhenthedecisionwastakenortheactwasauthorised,ifthedecisionwastakenortheactwasauthorisedbytherequisitemajorityofthemembersoftheCouncilwhowerepresentatthetimeandentitledtositasmembers.

(6) IfamemberoftheCouncilorhisorherspouse,includingaspouseinacustomaryunionorhisorherchildoranyothermemberofhisorherhousehold,orhisorherpartner,agentorbusinessassociate,hasadirectorindirectfinancialinterestinanymattertobeconsideredatanymeetingoftheCouncil,thatmembermustforthwithdisclose thenature andextentof thefinancial interest at thatmeetingand thereaftertheCouncilmustdeterminewhetherornotthemembermayparticipateindiscussionsrelatingtothatmatter.

(7) TheCouncilmaymakerulesinrelationtotheholdingof,andproceduresatitsmeetings.

(8) TheCouncilandanycommitteeoftheCouncilreferredtoinsection12mustcausearecordtobekeptoftheproceedingsofitsmeetings.

(9) Amemberwhofailstocomplywithsubsection(6)commitsanoffenceandonconvictionisliabletoafinenotexceedingN$12000ortoimprisonmentforaperiodnotexceedingtwoyearsortobothsuchfineandsuchimprisonment.



Committees of Council

12. (1) TheCouncilmayestablishoneormorecommitteestoassistitintheperformanceofitsduties,functionsorexerciseofitspowersandmay-

(a) appoint,forsuchperiodastheCouncilmaydetermine,asmembersofthatcommitteesuchmembersoftheCouncilandsuchotherpersonsasitmaythinkfit;

(b) designateamemberofthatcommitteeaschairpersonthereof;and

(c) doanyotheractwhichisnecessarytoenablethecommitteetoperformitsdutiesorfunctions.

(2) TheCouncilmayassignordelegatetoacommitteeestablishedundersubsection (1) such of its duties, functions or powers as itmay think fit, but is notdivestedofanyduty,functionorpowerwhichitmayhaveassignedordelegatedtoacommittee,andmayamendorwithdrawanydecisionofanysuchcommittee.

(3) AcommitteetowhichtheCouncilhasdelegatedthepowertoinquireinto any case of alleged unprofessional conduct and to impose a penalty in respectthereofinaccordancewithsection38may,despitetheexpiryofthetenureofofficeofthemembersofthatCouncil,continuetoexercisesuchpoweruntiltheconclusionofsuchinquiry.

(4) Despite subsection (2), no penalty imposed by any committeeestablishedintermsofsubsection(1)otherthanacaution,areprimand,orareprimandandacaution,isofforceandeffectuntilconfirmedbytheCouncil.

(5) The Council may issue directives with regard to the manner ofconveningandtheprocedurestobefollowedatmeetingsofacommitteeestablishedintermsofsubsection(1).

Remuneration

13. (1) Members-

(a) oftheCouncil;and

(b) ofanycommitteewhoarenotmembersoftheCouncil,

whoarenotinfulltimeemploymentofthepublicservicemaybepaidsuchremunerationorallowances,aswellassuchotherbenefits,astheCouncil,withtheconcurrenceoftheMinister,maydetermine.

(2) Any remuneration, allowance or benefit contemplated in subsection(1)maydiffer frommember tomember according to theofficeheld andduties andfunctionsperformedbythememberconcerned.

Funds of Council

14. (1) ThefundsoftheCouncilconsistof-



(a) application fees for registration, registration and annual fees andexaminationfeesandanyotherfeespayableunderthisAct;

(b) thefinesandcostsreferredtoinsection38;

(c) anymoneysreceivedbytheCouncilbyvirtueofdonations;

(d) anyinterestordividendsderivedfrominvestmentsmadeintermsofsection15;

(e) moneysadvancedtotheCouncilintermsofsubsection(3);and

(f) anyothermoneysaccruingtotheCouncilfromanyothersource.

(2) TheCouncilmustutiliseitsfundsfordefrayingexpensesinconnectionwith the exercise of its powers and the performanceof its functions andduties, butmoneys received by virtue of a donation must be utilised in accordance with theconditions,ifany,determinedbythedonorconcerned.

(3) TheMinistermay, in consultationwith theMinister responsible forfinance, advance to the Council out of monies appropriated by Parliament for thatpurposesuchamountsasheorshemaythinknecessaryinordertoenabletheCounciltocarryoutitsfunctionsandduties.

(4) Anymoneyadvancedintermsofsubsection(3)mustbemadeonsuchconditionsandisrepayableatsuchtimesastheMinistermay,inconsultationwiththeMinisterresponsibleforfinance,determine.

Banking account

15. TheCouncilmustcausethemoneyinitsfundtobepaidintoanaccountatafinancialinstitutionandmaywithinNamibiainvestanyunexpendedportionofitsfundsandmayestablishsuchreservefundsandpaythereinsuchamountsasitmaydeemnecessaryorexpedientwhicharenotimmediatelyrequiredforthepurposesmentionedinthisPart.

Bookkeeping and auditing

16. (1) The Council must, in accordance with generally acceptedaccountingprinciples,causefullaccountstobekeptofallmoneysreceivedorexpendedbyit.

(2) TheCouncilmustcausetobepreparedineachyearastatementofitsincome and expenditure during its last precedingfinancial year and a balance sheetshowing its financial position at the end of that financial year and must, after thestatementandbalancesheethavebeenauditedbyanauditorappointedbytheCouncil,causecopiesthereoftobetransmittedtoeverymemberofCouncil,andcauseacopythereoftobeopenforinspectionattheofficeoftheCouncilbyanyregisteredperson.

(3) TheCouncilmust in eachyear,within sixmonthsafter thecloseofitsfinancial year, submit to the registeredpersons a report in regard to its activitiesduringthatfinancialyear,togetherwithacopyoftheauditedstatementofincomeand



expenditureandthebalancesheetreferredtoinsubsection(2)inrespectofthatfinancialyear.

(4) ThefinancialyearoftheCouncilendson31Marchofeachyear,unlesstheCouncilwiththeapprovaloftheMinister,determinesotherwise.

Reports to Minister

17. (1) TheCouncilmustineachyear,notlaterthansixmonthsaftertheendofitsfinancialyear,submittotheMinisterareportonitsactivitiesduringthatfinancialyear,togetherwithacopyoftheauditedbalancesheetandreportreferredtoinsection16(2)inrespectofthatfinancialyear.

(2) The president of the Council may from time to time submit to theMinister reportson theactivitiesof theCouncilwhich in theopinionof theCouncilshouldbebroughttotheMinister’snotice.

(3) The Council must at the request of the Minister or the PermanentSecretaryoftheMinistryfurnishhimorherwithadviceonanymatterrelatedtothegeoscienceprofessionsormattersincidentalthereto.

Secretary and staff of Council

18. TheCouncil–

(a) mustappointasecretarywhomustperformthedutiesandfunctions,andexercisethepowersconferredonhimorherbythisAct,includingsuch additional duties, functions and powers as determined by theCouncilorasmaybeprescribed;

(b) mayappointotherpersonsas theCouncilmayconsidernecessarytoassistthesecretaryinexercisinganyofthepowersorperforminganyofthedutiesorfunctionsconferredonthesecretarybythisAct;and

(c) mustdeterminetheremunerationorallowancesthatmaybepaidtothesecretaryandotherpersonsemployedbytheCouncil,whoarenotinthefull-timeemploymentofthepublicservice.

PART3GEOSCIENCEPROFESSIONS:QUALIFICATIONFORREGISTRATIONAND

REGISTRATIONASGEOSCIENTIST

Geoscience professions

19. (1) Thegeoscienceprofessionscomprisesanyof thegeosciencedisciplinesspecifiedintheSchedule.

(2) TheMinistermay,on therecommendationof theCouncil,bynoticeintheGazette amendtheSchedulebyaddingtoitanyothergeosciencedisciplineorremovinganyofthegeosciencedisciplinesspecifiedtherein.

(3) Apersonmayinthemannerprovidedinsection20applytoberegisteredasageoscientistinanyoftheofthegeoscienceprofessions.



Registration of geoscientists

20. (1) Anypersonwhowantstoberegisteredasageoscientistinanyof the geoscienceprofessionsmust apply for such registration to theCouncil in theprescribedmannerandsuchapplicationmustbeaccompaniedbytheprescribedfees.

(2) Ifafterconsiderationofanapplicationmadeundersubsection(1)theCouncilissatisfiedthattheapplicant;

(a) holdsaqualificationwhichisprescribed;

(b) hasalevelofexpertisethatintheopinionofCouncilisequivalenttosuchperiodorlevelofexperienceasprescribed;or

(c) haspassedanexaminationthatmaybeprescribed,

theCouncilmust,subjecttotheprovisionsofsubsection(4),granttheapplicationforregistrationasageoscientistintherelevantgeoscienceprofessionandcauseacertificateofregistrationtobeissuedtohimorher.

(3) Ifafterconsiderationofanysuchapplication theCouncil issatisfiedthattheapplicantcomplieswiththerequirementsofsubsection(2),and

(a) hasatleastanadditionalfiveyearsapplicableandrelevantexperienceinaparticularfieldofgeoscience;and

(b) foratleasttwooftheyearsreferredtoinparagraph(a)hasaprovencapacityforworkingindependentlyorwithoutsupervisionassupportedbysuchevidenceasmaybeprescribed,

theCouncilmust,subjecttotheprovisionsofsubsection(4),granttheapplicationforregistrationasaseniorgeoscientistandcauseacertificateofregistrationtobeissuedtohimorhertothateffect.

(4) TheCouncilmayrefusetoregisteranypersonifheorshe-

(a) has at any timebeen removed fromanofficeof trust on account ofunprofessionalconduct;

(b) is convicted of an offence involving dishonesty and is sentencedtherefortoatermofimprisonmentwithouttheoptionofafine;

(c) has been declaredmentally ill by a competent court in terms of theMentalHealthAct,1973(ActNo.18of1973);

(d) isdisqualifiedfromregistration in termsofapenalty imposedunderthisAct;or

(e) isanunrehabilitatedinsolventorhasenteredintoanagreementwithhisorhercreditors.

(5) Apersonwhoisregisteredasageoscientist,iftheprescribedannualfeeorportionthereofispaidup,isentitled-



(a) todescribehimselforherselfasaregisteredgeoscientistorregisteredseniorgeoscientist,asthecasemaybe;and

(b) to indicate his or her profession ormake it known by using for allpurposes the title “Geo.Sci.Nam.” or “S.Geo.Sci.Nam.” after his orher name in case of a registered geoscientist or a registered seniorgeoscientistrespectively.

Recognition of qualifications

21. (1) To enable the Council to determine whether any particularqualification should be recognised or continue to be recognised for the purposes ofregistrationunderthisAct,itmaycallupontheapplicantto-

(a) providecertifiedcopiesofallqualificationsintheofficiallanguageofNamibia;and

(b) obtain from the NQA verification that any curricula offered, thetrainingprovidedorthestandardsofeducationrequiredforthepassingofanyparticularexaminationconductedbyanyeducationalinstitution,geoscienceinstituteorotherexaminationbodyareinaccordancewiththe standards of already recognised qualifications or comply withminimumstandardswhichtheCouncilmaylaydown.

(2) IftheNQAisunabletoprovideverificationaslaidoutinsubsection(1)(b),theCouncilmayrefusetorecognisethequalificationconcernedforthepurposesofsection18or,wheresuchrecognitionhadpreviouslybeenaccorded,withdrawsuchrecognitioninrespectofpersonsafteradatedeterminedbytheCouncil.

(3) If the Council, after an enquiry in terms of subsection (1) or (2),determines that any particular qualification issued by any educational institution, geoscienceinstituteorotherexaminingbody,doesnotqualifyforrecognitionforthepurposesofsection18,or,wheresuchrecognitionhasalreadybeenaccorded,decidesthat such recognitionmust bewithdrawnwith effect froma date determinedby theCouncil, such refusal or withdrawal of recognitionmust be reported, in writing, tothe controlling authority of the educational institution, geoscience institute or otherexaminingbodyconcerned.

(4) The Council may, in its discretion, rescind or amend any decisionarrivedatintermsofsubsection(2)or(3).

Certificate of registration

22. (1) IftheCouncil–

(a) grants an application for registration, the secretarymust register theapplicantandissuetothatapplicantacertificateofregistrationintheprescribedform;

(b) cancelstheregistrationofaregisteredpersonorsuspendstheregistrationofaperson,thesecretarymustindicateintheregisterthecancellationorsuspensionandinwritingnotifythepersonconcerned.



(2) ThesecretarymustissueaduplicatecertificatetoanyregisteredpersonwhohaslosttheoriginalregistrationcertificateissuedtohimorherintermsoftheActandwhohassubmittedawrittenapplicationfortheissuetohimorherofaduplicateregistrationcertificate,togetherwiththeappropriateprescribedfee.

Cancellation of registration

23. (1) The Council may, subject to subsection (4), cancel theregistrationofanyregisteredpersonorimposerestrictiveconditionsuponhimorherif-

(a) subsequenttohisorherregistration,heorshebecomessubjecttoanyofthedisqualificationsmentionedinsection20(4);

(b) hisorherregistrationwasmadeinerrororbasedoninformationwhichsubsequentlyprovedtobefalse;

(c) heor she is foundguiltyofunprofessional conduct and theCouncildeterminesthattheregistrationbecancelled;

(d) failstopayanyprescribedannualfeeorlevyoranyportionofeither,andpayablebyhimorher,within60daysafter such feeor levyorportion thereof becomes due or within such further period as theCouncilmayinanyparticularcasedetermine;or

(e) failstocomplywithanyrequirementsdeterminedundersection10(1)(h)oranyotherprescribedrequirements.

(2) TheCouncilmustatthewrittenrequestofanygeoscientistcancelhisorherregistration,but thecancellationdoesnotaffectanyliabilityincurredbysuchpriortothedateofsuchrequest.

(3) TheCouncilmay,beforecancelling theregistrationofageoscientistin terms of this section, on such conditions or restrictions as theCouncil considersnecessary,suspendtheregistrationof thatpersontoenableit toproperlyconductaninvestigationwhethertheregistrationshouldbecancelledornot.

Suspension due to mental illness

24. (1) Whenever it appears to theCouncil from information underoathoraffirmationthataregisteredpersonhasbecomementallyilltosuchanextentthatitwouldbecontrarytothepublicinterestorprofessionalinterest toallowhimorhertocontinueinpracticetheCouncilmay,ifitthinksfit,holdaninquiryinrespectofsuchgeoscientist.

(2) If after having held an inquiry the Council is satisfied that suchregisteredpersonisinfactmentallyill, itmayordertheregistrationofsuchpersontobesuspendedforaspecifiedperiod.

(3) TheCouncilmay extend the period of operation of any ordermadeunderthissectionforanyperioddeterminedbyit,orwithdrawsuchorder.



Effect of cancellation or suspension from register

25. (1) Any registeredpersonwhose registrationhasbeencancelledorsuspendedintermsofsection23,orwhoseregistrationhasbeensuspendedintermsofsection24,whoperformsorcontinues toperformtheactsspecified insection30commitsanoffenceandonconvictionisliabletothepenaltiesspecifiedinthatsection.

(2) The cancellationor suspensionof registrationof a registeredpersonunder this Act does not affect any civil, criminal, or disciplinary liability incurredbyhimorherprior tosuchsuspensionorcancellation, includingtheliabilityfor thepaymentofanyoutstandingannualfees.

(3) The certificate of registration of the registered person referred to insubsection(1)isregardedascancelleduntiltheperiodofcancellationorsuspensionhasexpiredorhisorherappealagainstsuchpenaltyisupheld,oruntilhisorherregistrationhasbeenrestoredtotheregisterbytheCouncil.

Return of certificate of registration

26. (1) Any person whose registration as a geoscientist has beencancelledundersection23mustreturntotheregistrarhisorhercertificateofregistrationwithin30daysfromthedateuponwhichheorsheisdirectedbywrittennoticebythesecretary.

(2) Any person who fails to comply with any direction given undersubsection(1)commitsanoffenceandonconvictionisliabletoafinenotexceedingN$6000ortoimprisonmentforaperiodnotexceedingoneyearortobothsuchfineandsuchimprisonment.

Restoration of name to register

27. (1) Subject to subsection (2), a person whose name has beencancelled from the register in terms of section 23may apply to theCouncil, in theprescribedformandmanner,tohavehisorhernamerestoredtotheregister.

(2) Anapplicationreferredtoinsubsection(1)mustbeaccompaniedby-

(a) such documents and information asmaybe prescribed in respect ofsuchapplication;

(b) suchadditionaldocumentsandinformationastheCouncilmayrequire;and

(c) the prescribed application fee in respect of such application forrestoration.

(3) Onreceiptofanapplicationundersubsection(1),thesecretarymay-

(a) restore the registration of a person if he or she is satisfied that theapplicanthascompliedwiththeconditionswhichledtothecancellationoftheregistrationorthatthecircumstanceswhichledtothecancellationoftheregistrationnolongerexist;or



(b) refusetheapplication,ifthesecretaryissatisfiedthattheapplicanthasnotcompliedwiththeapplicableprovisionsofsubsection(2).

(4) If the secretaryhas anydoubt relating to anyapplication referred toinsubsection(1),heorshemustrefertheapplicationforrestorationconcernedtotheCouncilforconsiderationandadecision.

(5) Anypersonwhoisaggrievedbythedecisionofthesecretarymadeintermsofsubsection(3)mayrequestthattheapplicationbereferredtotheCouncilforre-considerationandadecision.

(6) Thesecretarymust-

(a) inform inwriting a personwhohas applied to theCouncil in termsofsubsection(1) for therestorationofhisorherregistration,ofanydecisionmadeintermsofsubsection(3)or(4),asthecasemaybe,andincaseofthesecretary’sortheCouncil’srefusaltogranttheapplicationforrestoration,thereasonsforsuchrefusal;and

(b) iftheregistrationhasbeenrestored,issuetotheapplicantacertificateofregistrationintheprescribedform.

Keeping of register and status of register

28. (1) TheCouncilmustkeepandmaintain a register forpurposesofthisActandtheregistermustatallreasonabletimesbeopenforinspectionbyanymemberofthepublicuponthepaymentofanyprescribedfees.

(2) Thesecretarymust-

(a) enterintheregister,thenamesandaddressesandsuchotherparticularsasmay determined by theCouncil or asmay be prescribed of eachpersonregisteredintermsofthisAct;

(b) makeintheregister,anynecessaryalterationsinthename,addressorprescribedparticularsofaregisteredperson;

(c) deletefromtheregister,thenameofaregisteredpersonwhodies;and

(d) whenrequiredtodosounderthisActorpursuanttoregulationsmadeunderthisAct–

(i) indicateintheregister,theregistrationofanapplicantorthesuspensionoftheregistrationofaregisteredperson;or

(ii) cancelintheregistertheregistrationofaregisteredperson;and

(e) generallyinconnectionwiththeregister,complywiththisActandanyprescribedrequirements.

(3) Theregisterisprima facieproofofallmattersdirectedorauthorisedbythisActtobenotedtherein.



(4) Acertificatesignedbythesecretary-

(a) of the entry of the name of a person in the register is prima facieevidencethatthepersonisregisteredintermsofthisAct;

(b) thatthenameofapersonhasbeendeletedfromordoesnotappearintheregisterisprima facieevidencethatthepersonisnotaregisteredperson;and

(c) that the registration of a registered person has been suspended fora period specified in that certificate isprima facie evidence that thepersonhasbeensuspendedforthatperiod.

(5) AcopyofanyentryintheregisterorofadocumentinthecustodyofthesecretaryortheCouncil,oranextractfromtheregisterorfromanysuchdocument,certifiedby the secretary,maybe admitted as evidence in any court of lawwithoutfurtherprooforproductionoftheoriginal.

(6) TheCouncilmayissuetoanypersonwhowishestoobtainacertifiedcopy of an entry in, or a certified extract from, the register, such a document uponpaymentoftheappropriatefeeasprescribed.

Registration fees

29. (1) Aregisteredpersonmustwithin30daysofregistrationintermsofthisActorwithinsuchextendedperiodastheCouncilmaydetermineandthereafterat thebeginningofeachfinancialyearpayto theCouncil theappropriateprescribedannualfee.

(2) The Council may on application and on good cause being shown,grantanypersonanexemption,orafurtherexemption,eitherinwholeorinpart,frompaymentoftheannualfeepayablebysuchperson.

(3) TheCouncilmayadjustthebasicregistrationorannualfeespayableintermsofthissectionatthebeginningofeachfinancialyear.

Prohibition of use of title unless registered

30. (1) Anypersonwho,notbeingregisteredunderthisAct,pretendstobeorbyanymeanswhatsoeverholdshimselforherselfoutorallowshimselforherselftobeheldoutasaregisteredperson,commitsanoffenceandonconvictionisliabletoafinenotexceedingN$12000ortoimprisonmentforaperiodnotexceedingtwoyearsortobothsuchfineandsuchimprisonment.

(2) AnypersonorjuristicpersonwhowithfullknowledgeofthisActandthequalificationsofitsemployeesfalsely-

(a) pretends to employ registered persons or by anymeans whatsoeverholdshimself,herselforitselfoutorallowshimself,herselforitselftobeheldoutasemployingregisteredpersons;or

(b) causesanypersoninhis,heroritsemploymenttouseanyname,title,descriptionorsymbolindicatingorwhichiscalculatedtoleadpersonstoinferthattheyareregisteredpersons,



commitsanoffenceandonconvictionisliable–

(a) in case of natural person, to a fine not exceeding N$12 000 or toimprisonmentforaperiodnotexceedingtwoyearsortobothsuchfineandsuchimprisonment;or

(b) incaseofajuristpersontoafinenotexceedingN$24000.

PART4DISCIPLINARYMATTERS

Code of professional conduct

31. (1) TheCouncilmayfromtimetotimeissueacodeofprofessionalconductorrulesspecifyingtheactsoromissionsbyregisteredpersonswhichconstituteunprofessionalconductandinrespectofwhichtheCouncilmayconductinquiriesanddisciplinaryproceedingsintermsoftheprovisionsofthisPart.

(2) Nocodeofprofessionalconductorrulesissuedintermsofsubsection(1)oranyamendmenttheretoorwithdrawalthereofisofanyforceuntilapprovedbytheMinisterinwritingandpublishedbytheCouncilintheGazette.

Unprofessional conduct

32. (1) Aregisteredpersonisguiltyofimproperconductifheorshe-

(a) failstocomplywithanyprovisionofthecodeofprofessionalconductorrulesmadeintermsofsection31;

(b) failsorrefusestocomplyorcompliesinsufficiently,withalawfulinstructionoftheCouncil;

(c) commitsanoffenceinpractisinghisorherprofession;or

(d) contravenesorfailstocomplywithanyregulationmadeundersection41.

(2) ThepowersoftheCounciltoinquireintoanddealwithanycomplaint,chargeor allegation relating to a registered person are not limited to the acts oromissionsspecifiedinsubsection(1).

(3) Anyregisteredpersonwhoisfoundguiltyofunprofessionalconductisliabletoanyofthepenaltiesprovidedforinsection38.

Disciplinary powers of Council

33. (1) TheCouncilhasthepowertoinquireintocasesofunprofessionalconductofwhicharegisteredpersonisallegedtohavecommitted,andifsuchpersonisfoundguiltyofsuchconduct,toimposeinrespectthereofanypenaltyprovidedforinsection38,butifthesaidconductforms,orwhichtheCouncilhasreasontobelieveislikelytoform,thesubjectofcriminalorcivilproceedingsinacourtoflaw,theCouncilmaypostponetheinquiryuntilsuchproceedingshavebeenconcluded.



(2) If any penalty imposed under subsection (1) consists of or includesafineoranorderastocostsandthepersonconcernedfailstopaysuchfineorcostswithin30daysofthedateonwhichthepenaltyisimposedortheorderismade,theCouncilmayafterhavingaffordedsuchpersonanopportunitytobeheard,suspendsuchperson’sregistrationintermsofthisActuntilsuchtimeassuchfineorcostsarepaid.

(3) Theamountof thefineorcosts, ifordered infavourof theCouncil,contemplatedinsubsection(2)mustbepaidintothefundsoftheCouncil.

Institution of unprofessional conduct proceedings

34. (1) ApersonwhowishestolodgeacomplaintofunprofessionalconductonthepartofaregisteredpersonmustdosobylodgingthecomplaintwiththeCouncilintheprescribedmanner.

(2) TheCouncilmusttakeduecognisanceofanycomplaintlodgedwithitundersubsection(1),oranyfactsorinformationwhichcometoitsnoticethatprima facieindicateunprofessionalconductonthepartofaregisteredpersonandmayinstitutesuchfurtherinvestigationsasitmaydeemnecessary.

(3) Forpurposesofsubsection(2)theCouncilmay-

(a) in accordance with section 12, establish a disciplinary committeeconsistingofsuchnumberofpersonsasmaybenecessary;

(b) call for such further information from a complainant referred to insubsection(1),asitmaydeemnecessary;or

(c) causesuchfurtherinvestigationtobemadeandmayseeksuchlegaladviceorotherassistance,asitdeemsnecessary.

(4) Any Council member who has a vested interest in, or involvementwith,anyregisteredpersonchargedwithunprofessionalconductunderthisActmustimmediatelyandinwritingrecusehimselforherselffromanyinvestigationorenquiryintosuchmatter.

(5) The Council must, in the prescribed manner, notify any registeredpersonreferredtoinsubsection(1)ofthenatureoftheallegedunprofessionalconductbeinginvestigatedorofthecomplaintlodgedandaffordhimorhertheopportunityofgivinganexplanationofthematter,inwriting,within30daysfromthedateofsuchnotice,andmustatthesametimeadvisehimorherthat,shouldheorsheelecttofurnishsuchexplanation,itmaybeusedinevidence.

(6) If the Council considers that prima facie evidence exists ofunprofessionalconductitmustproceedwithaninquiryinaccordancewithsection35.

Inquiry by Council

35. (1) IftheCouncildecidestoholdaninquiryitmustintheprescribedmannernotifythedefendantofitsdecisionandwhatisexpectedofthedefendant,andifnocommitteehasbeenestablishedunder section34(3)(a), establishadisciplinarycommitteetoconducttheenquiryonbehalfofCouncilanddelegatetothedisciplinarycommitteeanypowerswhichtheCouncilmayexerciseunderthissectionorsection38.



(2) Thenoticereferredtoinsubsection(1)mustbeintheprescribedformandmustbeservedintheprescribedmanner.

(3) The personwhose conduct is being inquired into by the Council isentitledtoappearbyhimselforherselfortoberepresentedbysomeotherpersondulyauthorisedinwritingonhisorherbehalfandtoproduceevidence,callandexaminewitnessesonhisorherbehalfandcross-examinewitnesses.

(4) Anyfurtherproceedingsrelatingtoaninquiryunderthissectionandtheconductofproceedings,includingtheadmissibilityofevidenceattheinquirymustbeasprescribed.

Effect of inquiry proceedings on civil or criminal liability

36. (1) Theinstitutionof-

(a) unprofessional conduct proceedings against a registeredpersondoesnotprejudice the rightof anyperson,bodyor institution to institutecivil proceedings, or the Prosecutor-General to institute criminalproceedings, or an employer to take disciplinary action against thatregisteredperson;or

(b) civilorcriminalproceedingsagainstaregisteredperson,orthefactthatanemployerhastakendisciplinaryactionagainstaregisteredperson,doesnotprejudicetherightoftheCounciltoinstituteunprofessionalconductproceedingsagainstthatregisteredperson,orfromimposingpenalties on that person for unprofessional conduct, arising from orbasedonthesamefacts.

(2) Any incriminating reply or information obtained, or incriminatingevidencedirectlyorindirectlyderivedfromquestioninginanunprofessionalconductinquiryisnotadmissibleasevidenceagainstthepersonconcernedincriminalorcivilproceedingsinacourtoflaw.

(3) Despite subsection (2), incriminating evidence referred to in thatsubsection is admissible in criminal proceedingswhere the person stands trial on achargeofthecontraventionofanyoftheprovisionsofsection37(3)or(4).

(4) TheacquittalortheconvictionofaregisteredpersonbyacourtoflawuponacriminalchargedoesnotbartheCouncilfrombringingproceedingsagainsthimorherunderthisActonachargeofunprofessionalconduct,evenifthefactssetforthinthechargeofunprofessionalconductwould,ifproved,constitutetheoffencesetforthinthecriminalchargeonwhichheorshewassoacquittedorconvictedoranyotheroffenceofwhichheorshemighthavebeenconvictedathisorher trialon thesaidcriminalcharge.

(5) Whenever in the courseof anyproceedingsbefore any court of laworinthecourseofaninvestigationintermsofanylawitappearstothecourtortothepersoninchargeoftheinvestigationthatthereisprima facieevidenceofunprofessionalconduct on the part of a registered person, the court or the person in charge of theinvestigationmustdirectthatacopyoftherecordoftheproceedingsortheinvestigationorsuchpartthereofasismaterialtotheissue,betransmittedtotheCouncil.



(6) If the unprofessional conduct with which any registered person ischargedamountstoanoffenceofwhichheorshehasbeenconvictedbyacourtoflaw,acertifiedcopyoftherecordofhisorhertrialandconvictionbythatcourtis,ontheidentificationofsuchregisteredpersonasthepersonreferredtointherecord,sufficientproofofthecommissionbyhimorherofsuchoffence,unlesstheconvictionhasbeensetasidebyasuperiorcourt.

Summoning of persons by Council

37. (1) Forthepurposeofanyinvestigationorinquiryundersection34or35,theCouncilmay-

(a) summonanypersonwhoinitsopinionmaybeabletogivematerialinformationconcerning the subjectof the investigationor inquiryorwhoisbelievedtohaveinhisorherpossessionorcustodyorunderhisorhercontrolanybook,documentorthingwhichhasanybearingonthesubjectoftheinvestigationorinquirytoappearbeforeitatatimeandplacespecifiedinthesummons,tobequestionedortoproducethatbook,documentorthingandtheCouncilmayretainforexaminationanybook,documentorthingsoproduced;

(b) call,andbyitspresidentoranyotherpersonpresidingattheinquiry,administeranoathto,oracceptanaffirmationfrom,anypersonpresentattheinvestigationorinquirywhowasorcouldhavebeensummonedunderparagraph (a) and questionhimorher and requirehimorherto produce anybook, document or thing in his or her possession orcustodyorunderhisorhercontrol;

(c) appoint any person to advise the Council at such investigation orinquiry on matters pertaining to law, procedure or evidence, or toadduceevidenceandtoexamineorcross-examinewitnesses.

(2) AsummonsfortheattendancebeforetheCouncilofanypersonorfortheproductionofanybook,documentorthingmustbe-

(a) intheprescribedform;

(b) signedbythepresidentoftheCouncilorapersonauthorisedtheretobyhimorher;and

(c) servedintheprescribedmanner.

(3) Ifanypersonwhohasbeendulysummonedunderthissection-

(a) fails,withoutsufficientcause,toattendatthetimeandplacespecifiedinthesummons;

(b) fails,without sufficient cause, to remain in attendanceuntil excusedfromfurtherattendancebythepresidentoftheCouncil;

(c) refusestobesworninortoaffirmasawitness;



(d) failsorrefuseswithoutsufficientcausetoanswerfullyandsatisfactorilytothebestofhisorherknowledgeandbeliefallquestionslawfullyputtohimorherconcerningthesubjectoftheinquiry;or

(e) failsorrefuseswithoutsufficientcausetoproduceanybook,documentorthinginhisorherpossessionorcustodyorunderhisorhercontrolwhichheorshehasbeenrequiredtoproduce,

heorshecommitsanoffence,except that inconnectionwith thequestioningofanysuchpersonortheproductionofanysuchbook,documentor thing, thelawrelatingtoprivilege,asapplicabletoawitnesssubpoenaedtogiveevidenceortoproduceanybook,documentorthingbeforeacourtoflaw,applies.

(4) Anypersonwhointentionallyhindersanymember,employeeorofficeroftheCouncilintheexerciseofanypowerconferreduponhimorherbyorunderthissectioncommitsanoffence.

(5) Anypersonconvictedofanoffenceundersubsection(3)or(4)isliabletoafinenotexceedingN$12000ortoimprisonmentforaperiodnotexceedingtwoyearsortobothsuchfineandsuchimprisonment.

Penalties for unprofessional conduct

38. (1) Everyregisteredpersonwho,afteraninquiryconductedbytheCouncilintermsofthisPart,isfoundguiltyofunprofessionalconductorwhoadmitsthatheor she isguiltyof the chargeconcerned, is liable to anyoneormoreof thepenaltiesconsistingof-

(a) areprimandoracaution;

(b) paymentofafinenotexceedingtheprescribedamount;

(c) cancellation of the name of that registered person from the registerwhichmayinclude-

(i) temporary disqualification from registration in terms of thisActforaspecifiedperiodnotexceedingthreeyears;or

(ii) permanent disqualification from registration in terms of thisAct.

(2) TheCouncilmay,inaninvestigationorinquiryproceedingsunderthisPart, makeanorderas to reasonablecosts incurredby theCounciloranyperson inconnectionwithaninvestigationorinquiryconductedintothealleged unprofessionalconductbyanyregisteredperson.

(3) TheCouncilmayrecoveranyfineimposedintermsofsubsection(1)(b)orcostsorderedintermsofsubsection(2)bymeansofproceedingsinacompetentcourtforthebenefitofthefundsoftheCouncil.

(4) TheCouncilmust-



(a) setoutfullyinwritingitsfindingsandthepenalties,ifany,imposedintermsofthissection;and

(b) makesuchfindingsandthepenaltiesknowntoanyprescribedbodyorpersoninwriting.

(5) TheCouncilmayinrelationtoadecisionofadisciplinarycommitteeascontemplatedinsection12(4)-

(a) suspendtheoperationofanypunishmentimposedintermsofsubsection(1)(b)or(c)foraperiodnotexceedingthreeyearsfromthedateonwhichsuchpunishmentisimposed;

(b) postpone the coming into operation of any punishment imposed intermsofsubsection(1)(c);

(c) reduceanypunishmentimposedintermsofsubsection(1)(b)or(c);or

(d) substitute any punishment referred to in subsection (1)(b) or (c),providedthatthepunishmentimposedinthismannermaynotbemoreseverethanthepunishmentoriginallyimposed.

(6) ThesecretarymustintheprescribedmannerinformaregisteredpersonwhohasbeenfoundguiltyofunprofessionalconductintermsofthisPart,whetherornotthatregisteredpersonwaspresentattheinquiryconcerned.

(7) Whenapersonhasbeenfoundnotguiltyofunprofessionalconduct,theregistrarmust informthatpersonofthefindingsof theCouncil intheprescribedmanner.

(8) Afindingmade, or a penalty imposed, by theCouncil at an inquiryconducted in termsof thisPart is,unlessappealedagainst in termsofsection40,offorceandeffectafterthedatedeterminedbytheCouncil.

(9) Despite subsection (7), if an appeal is lodged against a penalty forthecancellationorsuspensionofanyregisteredpersonfromtheregister,suchpenaltyremainseffectiveuntiltheappealhasbeenfinallydetermined.

Penalties for false evidence

39. Anypersonwhogives falseevidenceonoathorafterhavemadeanaffirmationatanyinvestigationorinquiryconductedintermsofthisPart,knowingsuchevidence tobefalse,commitsanoffenceandonconviction is liable to thepenaltiesprescribedbylawforthecrimeofperjury.

PART5GENERALPROVISIONS

Appeal against certain decisions

40. (1) Anypersonaggrievedbyafindingordecisionmade,apenaltyimposedortherefusalorfailuretomakeafindingoradecisionby-



(a) theCouncilinrelationtotheregistrationofapersonasageoscientistorthesuspensionorcancellationofsuchregistrationortoanymatterprovidedforinthisAct;or

(b) theCouncilinrelationtoanymatterprovidedforinthisActorasmaybeprescribed,

may,withintheprescribedperiodandintheprescribedmanner,appealtotheMinisterby-

(a) lodgingwiththeMinisterawrittennoticeofappealstatingthegroundsofappeal;and

(b) servingupontheCouncilacopyofthatnoticeofappeal.

(2) Onreceiptofthecopyofthenoticeofappealintermsofsubsection(1),theCouncilmustassoonaspossiblefurnishtheMinisterwithitsreasonsforthefindingordecisionwhichisthesubjectoftheappeal.

(3) TheMinistermaygivesuchdecisionasheorsheconsidersappropriateinanappealintermsofsubsection(1).

(4) Anyperson, includingtheCouncil,aggrievedbyanydecisionof theMinisterintermsofsubsection(3)mayappealtotheHighCourtagainstsuchdecision.

(5) Anoticeofappealrelatingtoanappealintermsofsubsection(1)mustbe lodged, in the prescribed form andmanner,with the registrar of theHighCourtwithinaperiodof30daysafterthedateuponwhichthedecisionappealedagainstwasmade.

(6) TheHigh Courtmay allow, on good cause shown, an appeal to belodgedaftertheexpiryoftheperiodof30daysspecifiedinsubsection(5).

(7) TheHighCourtmay-

(a) requesttheMinisterortheCouncilinwritingtofurnishtheHighCourtwithsuchdocumentsorparticularsasitmayrequire;

(b) referthemattertotheMinisterforfurtherconsideration;

(c) allowordismissanappeallodgedintermsofthissection;

(d) make an order reversing or amending the decision of the Ministerappealedagainst, if it isof theopinion theMinisterhasnotacted inaccordancewiththisAct;

(e) makeanorderrelatingtothepaymentofcosts;or

(f) makesuchotherorderasitmayconsiderappropriate.



Regulations

41. (1) TheMinistermay,afterconsultationwith theCouncil,makeregulationsnotinconsistentwiththisActrelatingto-

(a) matters that are in terms of this Act required or permitted to beprescribedbyregulation;

(b) themannerinwhichanapplicantmustapplyforregistrationunderthisAct;

(c) thefeespayabletotheCouncilinrespectof-

(i) an examination or part thereofwhich is conducted by or onbehalfoftheCouncil;

(ii) registrationandannualfeespayabletotheCouncilbyapersonaslongasheorsheremainsregistered;

(iii) theportionofsuchannual feespayableinrespectofpartofayearandthedateonwhichsuchannualfeeorportionthereofbecomespayable;and

(iv) the granting of exemption from the payment of such annualfeesorportionthereof,

(d) the calling of, procedure at, keeping of records of, and quorum at,meetingsoftheCouncilorofacommitteeoftheCouncil;

(e) thekeeping,custodyandpublicationofaregisterofpersonsregisteredintermsofthisAct;and

(f) generallyallmattersthatitdeemsnecessaryorexpedienttoprescribeinordertoachievetheobjectivesofthisAct.

(2) Regulationsmadeundersubregulation(1)mayauthorisetheCouncilto,bynoticeintheGazette,amendanyofthestandardsofqualificationsmadeintermsofthoseregulations.

(3) Anyregulationmadeintermsofsubsection(1)mayprovidepenaltiesforthecontraventionthereofexceptthatnosuchpenaltymayexceedafineofN$12000orimprisonmentforaperiodoftwoyears.

Rectification of errors

42. Wheneveranythingwhichisrequiredtobedoneorperformedintermsof thisAct on or before a specified day or at a specified timeor during a specifiedperiodhasnotbeensodoneorperformedtheMinistermay,ifheorsheissatisfiedthatsuchfailurewasduetoerrororoversightandthatitisintheinterestofthegeoscienceprofessionstodoso,authorisesuchthingtobedoneorperformedonorbeforesuchotherdayoratsuchothertimeorduringsuchotherperiod,asheorshemaydirect,andanythingsodoneorperformedisoffullforceanddeemedtohavebeenlawfullydoneorperformedinaccordancewiththisAct.



Restriction of liability

43. AmemberoftheCouncilorofanycommitteeestablishedintermsofthisAct,anyofficeroremployeeoftheCouncil,orthesecretary,isnotliableinrespectofanythingdoneoromittedtobedoneingoodfaithintheexerciseofapowerortheperformanceofadutyorfunctionintermsofthisAct,oranythingthatmayresultfromanythingsodoneoromitted.

Delegation of power

44. (1) TheMinistermaydelegateinwritingtoaseniorstaffmemberintheMinistryalloranyofthepowersconferreduponhimorherbythisActotherthanthepowersconferreduponhimbysection41.

(2) Anypersontowhomanypowerhasbeendelegatedundersubsection(1)mustexercisethatpowersubjecttothedirectionsoftheMinister.

(3) TheMinistermayatanytime revokeinwritinganysuchdelegation,and thedelegationof anypowerdoesnotprevent the exerciseof thatpowerby theMinisterhimselforherself.

Short title and commencement

45. (1) ThisAct iscalled theGeoscienceProfessionsAct,2012andcomesintooperationonadatetobedeterminedbytheMinisterbynoticeintheGazette.

(2) Differentdatesmaybedeterminedundersubsection(1)inrespectofthedifferentprovisionsofthisAct.

SCHEDULE

Disciplinesregistrableasgeoscienceprofessions:

(a) regionalgeology;

(b) geophysics;

(c) hydrogeology;

(d) economic,explorationormininggeology;

(e) geochemistry;

(f) engineeringgeology;

(g) environmentalgeology;

(h) hydrocarbongeology;

(i) palaeontology;

(j) geoscienceeducation.________________

Documents

GOVERNMENT GAZETTE · president or vice-president for the unexpired part of the period of officefor which his or her predecessor was elected. (3) If for any reason the president is