In response to escalating concerns regarding maritime safety and environmental practices, the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has declared its intentions to reinstate a 20-year age limit for vessels operating within Fijian waters—a regulation that has not been actively enforced in recent years. MSAF’s Chief Executive Officer, Joweli Cawaki, confirmed that the Cabinet has approved a legislative review aimed at tightening maritime regulations, which emphasizes the necessity for compliance in the shipping industry.
Cawaki highlighted the previous allowance that enabled older vessels to operate in Fijian waters, stating, “That change opened the door to older vessels operating in our waters.” The renewed push for the age limit comes as part of a broader effort to prioritize environmental concerns and align with global trends toward lower-emission shipping. The announcement follows scrutiny of Goundar Shipping Limited, a local ferry operator with a history of mishaps that raised alarms about its compliance with maritime safety standards.
Previously discussed issues included the lack of effective enforcement mechanisms within the existing legal framework. Cawaki noted, “This is not the first incident, and without stronger penalties, it may not be the last,” recognizing that the current regulations allow companies to evade significant penalties. The planned review aims not only to reestablish the vessel age limit but also to shift accountability from solely individual operators to include the companies themselves, enhancing corporate responsibility.
This legislative overhaul is part of ongoing efforts to bolster maritime safety throughout Fiji. Earlier initiatives, such as upcoming audits and inspections of all shipping companies set to begin shortly, highlight a comprehensive approach by MSAF to ensure compliance with safety regulations. An emphasis on the need for stronger penalties and an improved governance structure reflects a significant step towards fostering accountability in the maritime sector.
As measures are implemented to ensure both safety and environmental protection, there is a sense of optimism regarding the future of maritime operations in Fiji. By addressing these pressing concerns, the MSAF is not only enhancing safety standards but is also paving the way for a more reliable and efficient shipping environment that benefits both the operators and the passengers. This proactive stance can potentially restore public confidence in maritime travel and ensure that safety remains a top priority as the industry evolves.
Leave a comment