Goundar Shipping Limited (GSL) is under scrutiny and potentially faces fines of up to $1 million, along with possible imprisonment following a significant oil spill in Suva Harbour linked to the abandoned vessel Lomaiviti Princess II.
The Joint Maritime Environment Committee (JMEC) has accused GSL of gross negligence and multiple violations of Fiji’s maritime and environmental laws. Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Mosese Bulitavu, emphasized the importance of environmental protection, stating that Fiji’s waterways must not be treated as dumping grounds.
This incident involves the Lomaiviti Princess II, a vessel that has been derelict in Suva Harbour since 2019. GSL had reportedly disregarded directives for the removal of the ship, compelling Fiji Ports Corporation Limited (FPCL) to intervene in June. Due to structural risks, FPCL had to tow the vessel to prevent it from capsizing.
GSL’s failure to defuel and remove the vessel constitutes a violation of the Maritime Transport Act 2013, as confirmed by JMEC. They also highlighted that GSL lacked valid waste disposal permits, which breaches the Environmental Management Act 2005, carrying significant penalties. Furthermore, the case indicates potential common law negligence since GSL, as the shipowner, had a duty of care towards preventing harm to the marine environment.
The Lomaiviti Princess II had been left to deteriorate for years despite repeated warnings and directives to ensure maritime safety. GSL director George Goundar, however, claimed the situation is not entirely within his control, questioning the accountability of the authorities involved.
Past incidents involving GSL, including previous mishaps with their vessels, have amplified concerns regarding operational standards and marine safety. Nevertheless, the government is committed to addressing these failures, conducting thorough investigations, and improving maritime regulations to enhance safety and environmental standards moving forward.
As the situation develops, there remains a glimmer of hope that these actions will lead to better maritime practices in Fiji, ultimately ensuring the protection of its valuable marine ecosystems and serving the community’s needs effectively. This proactive response from authorities and the maritime community reflects a concerted effort to prevent future incidents and strengthen operational protocols.
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