The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has acknowledged significant delays in investigating vessel groundings, attributing the backlog to a persistent shortage of manpower. Chief Executive Officer Joeli Cawaki revealed that investigations into these incidents have been increasingly postponed over the years. To address the growing number of unresolved cases, MSAF has formed a working group dedicated to fast-tracking outstanding investigations.
Cawaki stated, “We are catching up now,” as the authority takes steps to enhance efficiency and accountability within their operations. The ongoing internal handling of maritime incident investigations involves MSAF surveyors and enforcement officials.
To further improve their capabilities, Cawaki confirmed that MSAF plans to establish a dedicated unit specifically for investigations. This initiative is intended to streamline the process and provide a more structured approach to dealing with past incidents that have yet to be resolved.
The creation of this focused unit represents a proactive step towards overcoming the current challenges and underscores MSAF’s commitment to maritime safety. By catching up on previous investigations and improving operational accountability, MSAF aims to foster a safer maritime environment for all.
Additionally, recent related efforts have positioned MSAF to address broader safety concerns in Fiji’s maritime sector, such as emphasizing the need for well-qualified crew members and implementing stronger regulations to prevent future incidents. This comprehensive approach reflects a hopeful outlook for the future of maritime safety and operational integrity in Fiji, aiming to ensure the protection of lives and resources at sea.
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