The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) is prioritizing the qualification of crew members on shipping vessels to enhance safety at sea. Chief Executive Officer Joeli Cawaki emphasized the importance of qualified personnel, especially in light of recent maritime incidents involving grounded ships.
Cawaki highlighted ongoing investigations into several recent groundings, including two incidents between Natovi and Ovalau and another in Moala. He attributed these issues largely to human error, underlining the necessity for qualified crew members on board vessels.
The MSAF plans to await the completion of the investigation reports before deciding on any disciplinary actions concerning those responsible for the incidents. Cawaki noted that penalties would be administered in accordance with licenses granted by the MSAF based on crew qualifications.
The organization is committed to ensuring that all safety regulations and legislative measures are adhered to as part of their ongoing investigation efforts.
This proactive approach taken by the MSAF reflects a strong commitment to maritime safety and the continuous improvement of crew competencies in Fiji’s waters, ultimately aiming to prevent future incidents and reinforce the integrity of the shipping industry.
In summary, the MSAF is actively working to investigate recent maritime accidents while emphasizing the need for qualified crew members, indicating a dedicated effort to enhance maritime safety in Fiji.
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