Over the past five years, Fiji has experienced 15 domestic oil spills, averaging around three incidents annually, as highlighted by Assistant Minister for Public Works, Naisa Tuinaceva. Speaking at the Pacific Regional Symposium on Marine Pollution Emergency Response, Tuinaceva emphasized the growing threat of marine pollution, with over 1,400 vessels entering Fiji’s waters annually.
The Assistant Minister stressed the importance of safeguarding Fiji’s marine environment, calling for enhanced vigilance and proactive measures to mitigate pollution risks. The government’s efforts include revising the National Oil Spill Contingency Plan to align with international best practices. This revision aims to establish a comprehensive marine oil spill strategy that focuses on prevention, preparedness, and immediate response, supported by a dedicated national fund for essential equipment and training.
Tuinaceva expressed gratitude towards international partners for their assistance during crises, referencing past incidents such as the grounding of MV Southern Trader in 2019 and the Southern Phoenix incident in 2017, both of which had devastating environmental consequences. The response from nations like New Zealand and Australia underscores the significance of international cooperation in addressing oil spills.
The British High Commissioner to Fiji, Kanbar Hossein-Bor, highlighted the UK’s commitment to marine protection through the Ocean Country Partnership Programme, which aims to shield marine biodiversity, bolster resilience, and promote the sustainable use of ocean resources.
The five-day symposium brings together key stakeholders, experts, and policymakers to discuss coordinated approaches to marine pollution emergency response in the Pacific region. The gathering underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in developing effective strategies to tackle the grave threats posed by marine pollution to ecosystems, livelihoods, and cultural heritage in the Pacific. By enhancing regulatory measures and fostering international partnerships, Fiji seeks to create a safer and cleaner marine environment, benefiting both its residents and the broader Pacific community.
Leave a comment