The Minister for Public Works, Transport, and Meteorological Services, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, has announced a comprehensive review of vessel purchase procedures in Fiji following concerns regarding the entry of a new vessel that lacked proper surveying by the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF).
According to the Minister, MSAF only received notification of the vessel’s arrival on December 31, despite its departure from South Korea on December 19. The MSAF team was unable to conduct the usual technical assessments and physical surveys due to recent political unrest in Korea and various logistical challenges.
Ro Filipe expressed dissatisfaction with existing processes and emphasized the need for innovation and proactivity within his ministry. He highlighted his role as a political leader rather than a manager, urging his team to take more initiative regarding operational and regulatory matters.
In light of this incident, the minister stressed that vessel operators should not make purchases without MSAF’s clearance, advocating for better coordination of clearance procedures from the originating port before vessels embark.
To address the current situation, the MSAF will carry out technical assessments and collaborate with the vessel owner to resolve any discrepancies before issuing a license. The Minister also mentioned that MSAF will focus on environmental considerations and engage with stakeholders to remove unserviceable vessels, while simultaneously reviewing vessel acquisition regulations.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by the maritime industry, Ro Filipe expressed gratitude to operators for their essential services and assured that a thorough review of the transport sector, including maritime services, is underway with finalized Terms of Reference expected soon.
This proactive approach by the Minister signifies a commitment to enhancing safety and regulatory measures in Fiji’s maritime industry, ensuring that any issues are addressed swiftly and effectively to maintain the integrity of the transportation network.
Overall, this review presents a positive step toward improving governance in the maritime sector, as it not only seeks to rectify past oversights but also paves the way for future enhancements in the processes that safeguard public and environmental interests.
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