Please note that the the new “REGINAVE” (Regime of Maritime, River and Lacustre Navigation) has been officially published as of today Jan 20th, this modification was announced late last year and now replaces the previous “REGISPORT”. Amongst various modifications, specifically regarding the use of watchmen please note:

“Section 2 – Vessel Watchmen
202.0201. Features
The functions of the watchman will consist of the general surveillance of the ships moored in port, as well as the cargo or merchandise deposited on docks, banks and squares.

202.0202. Freedom of ships to take Watchmen
The hiring of watchmen by every vessel will be optional.”

According to this disposition, Watchmen will no longer be compulsory, and their use will be up to the decision of the Owner. 

We will have to see how this change affects the flow operations and what backlash it may have with the Watchmen and other Unions