Grupo Stier becomes first Marlins Approved Test Centre in the Canary Islands

Grupo Stier has become the first Marlins Approved Test Centre in the Canary Islands following a successful inspection last month.

The ship agency group, who also offer maritime and offshore training courses, will now be able to offer Marlins English Language testing as well as UK MCA approved STCW security testing (International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers).

“The inspection of potential test centres is an important part of the credibility a Marlins certificate offers to future employers,” explains Darren Cassidy, business development co-ordinator at Marlins. “Testing is conducted in a controlled environment, under supervision and with identity verification - providing assurance that test results accurately reflect the knowledge and ability of the candidate.”

“The Marlins process and achievement is one that has always been a goal for us, having experience first-hand with various cultures and nationalities,” says Grupo Stier centre manager, Terence O’Brien.

Ida Stier, chief executive officer, Grupo Stier adds: “We undertook the process to become a Marlins Approved Test Centre to help in the continued need to encourage seafarers and persons working in all maritime and offshore industries to increase and demonstrate their understanding of the working English language and to try and add to the continued assistance in the reduction of incidents and accidents at sea.”

Grupo Stier joins the wider Marlins Approved Test Centre network, which now extends to over 180 globally, offering seafarers access to accredited Marlins testing services in over 40 countries.