Exclusive Economic Zone Act, 1991.

The Act establishes an Exclusive Economic Zone adjacent to the territorial sea of Jamaica. Where the outer limit of the zone (200 miles from the baselines from which the territorial sea is measured) intersects that of other States' zones the delimitation is to be effected by agreement, in order to achieve an equitable solution. In the zone, the State has "sovereign rights" in respect of all natural resources, "exclusive rights and jurisdiction" in respect of construction and use of artificial islands and installations, and "jurisdiction" in respect of scientific resources, archaeological objects, and protection of the environment. The exploration and exploitation of all living and non living resources in the zone is to be carried out exclusively under licence. Licences must be granted in accordance with provisions relating to the grant of licences contained in the relevant scheduled enactment, and for that purpose the jurisdiction of any authority under the enactment is extended to the zone as if it constituted a part of the territorial sea. The Minister may extend the application of any enactment to the zone with any specified exceptions and modifications. The jurisdiction and power of the courts and of constables is extended to the zone. The powers and duties of marine officers in the zone are specified, and include powers to board and inspect vessels and to seize vessels or equipment being used in violation of the Act. Detailed provisions as to the procedure to be followed after seizure are included. The Act also contains provisions on offences and regulatory powers of the Minister.