Independent opposition MP Viliame Naupoto raised concerns about the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji’s (MSAF) monitoring of small boats that operate between the islands. During a parliamentary session on Wednesday, he responded to a statement from Minister for Public Works, Transport and Meteorological Services Ro Filipe Tuisawau, noting established crossing points, particularly from Vatulewa to Taveuni and various locations on Vanua Levu to Taveuni.
Naupoto emphasized that Fiji is bound by international agreements including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), and the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL). He highlighted MSAF’s critical role in ensuring local shipping safety and facilitating the safe entry of yachts into Fijian waters.
He pointed out a recent incident involving a small boat that ran aground while children were swimming nearby, criticizing attempts to lighten the boat’s load by having children enter the water, a decision he deemed dangerous. Naupoto expressed hope that a thorough investigation was conducted and that actions were taken to address safety compliance among small boats.
Highlighting statistics on search and rescue operations, he noted that many missions stem from non-compliance issues related to small vessels in Fiji’s waters. He also stressed the importance of navigational aids, stating that clear markings are essential to prevent vessels from running aground. He mentioned that missing parts of warning beacons pose risks for navigating boats.
Naupoto pointed out the issue of beacons and lights being damaged by cyclones, which requires prompt repairs. He further called for an increase in the number of MSAF enforcement officers, reflecting on his recent journey from Vatulewa to Taveuni where no MSAF personnel were present to check for safety gear on the boats. He advocated for more enforcement officers to be stationed at key crossing points for better compliance and safety.