Regulation No. 3 on the duties and powers of fisheries observers.

This Greenland Home Rule regulation outlines the duties and powers of fisheries observers. It applies to all vessels engaged in fishing, processing, or transshipment of fish within Greenland’s fisheries territory, as well as Greenland-registered vessels operating in international waters. Fisheries observers from the Greenland Fisheries License Control (GFLK) are granted the right to board vessels without a court order, remain onboard during operations, and monitor unloading and transshipments. Shipowners are responsible for their accommodation and food, which must be equal to that of the vessel’s officers. The GFLK determines when and where observers embark and disembark, and can require vessels to delay departure or unloading until observation is arranged.
While onboard, observers have extensive rights, including unrestricted access to fishing, processing, storage, and navigation areas, ship records (including electronic ones), and communication facilities. They may observe, photograph, take biological samples, and require assistance from crew when necessary. Captains must ensure safe working conditions, prevent intimidation or obstruction, and provide timely notice of fishing or unloading activities. Observers cannot be forced into ship operations or safety duties. Violations of these rules can result in fines, and certain breaches—such as hindering observers or failing to comply with orders—are specifically punishable.