A local shipping tycoon has taken a strong stance against the drug crisis affecting the maritime industry in Fiji.
At the launch of the company’s new passenger vessel, Lady Daya, George Goundar, managing director of Goundar Shipping Limited, announced the dismissal of 18 staff members over drug and alcohol issues, underscoring his commitment to fighting drug abuse among his crew and passengers.
Mr. Goundar said there was an urgent need for action against drug problems on his vessels.
“We have zero tolerance for drugs among our crew members, and if anyone is found with drugs, they are not allowed on board the vessel,” Mr. Goundar declared.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Mr. Goundar revealed that drugs have been a significant challenge for the company, with crew and passengers involved in both drug use and sales to the outer islands.
“We had just fired a few guys last week for drugs and alcohol, which is very risky for seafarers,” he said.
Despite raising these concerns with the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), Mr. Goundar criticised the lack of governmental action.
“We have raised this issue with the MSAF, but there is no law that the Government can enforce here,” he explained.
In response to the ongoing drug issues, Mr. Goundar is advocating for increased police transparency and presence on board.
“Kadavu has been a significant problem for us, and we have been asking the police to be more transparent,” he said.
“We can facilitate police presence on the vessel, but it’s regrettable that we can’t take more action ourselves.”
To further combat the drug crisis, Goundar Shipping has implemented mandatory monthly drug tests for all crew members.
“Our stance is clear: we will not tolerate drugs on our vessels,” Mr. Goundar affirmed.