The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) and Fiji Ports Corporation Ltd (FPCL) have established a committee aimed at the weekly removal of abandoned and derelict vessels to expedite the process.
During a recent ministerial statement in Parliament, Public Works, Communications, Transport and Meteorological Services Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau announced that this initiative will fall under the Seaport Management and Maritime Transport Act. He clarified that these regulations cover the removal of wrecks, derelicts, and abandoned vessels.
Ro Filipe explained that a recent meeting had identified such vessels, and through the FPCL Seaport Management Act, owners and agents received a letter of concern regarding their vessels. This letter obliges them to make necessary repairs to achieve seaworthiness. If they fail to do so within 30 days, they will receive a removal process letter which must be acted upon within 21 days. Non-compliance could lead to vessel seizure, removal, or auction if the vessel holds any value. Furthermore, all Fiji-registered vessels in this category will be de-registered and subject to a full survey to assess seaworthiness.
He stated that if a vessel is deemed beyond economic repair, it will be seized for removal, which could involve scuttling or sinking it in designated diving areas deeper than 30 meters, following consultations with the Department of Environment for purposes such as recreational diving and fish spawning.
Ro Filipe indicated that the initial removals should begin next month. Additionally, he mentioned a focus on enhanced collaboration with law enforcement and maritime partners, including Fiji Water Police and various government ministries, to address the ongoing issues of marine pollution and derelict ships.
Furthermore, Ro Filipe shared that around 1,500 individuals have been trained and certified through boat master license programs and restricted marine engineer training. This includes over 3,500 seafarers who have completed assessments and received certification in small boat operation and seafarers training.