A prominent local shipping magnate is taking a firm position against the drug crisis impacting Fiji’s maritime sector.
George Goundar, managing director of Goundar Shipping Limited, announced at the launch of their new passenger vessel, Lady Daya, that 18 staff members had been dismissed due to drug and alcohol issues. This move underscores his determined effort to combat drug abuse among crew and passengers.
Mr. Goundar emphasized the urgent need for addressing drug problems aboard his ships.
“We have zero tolerance for drugs among our crew members, and if anyone is found with drugs, they are not allowed on board the vessel,” he stated.
Mr. Goundar highlighted that drugs represent a considerable challenge for the company, with incidents involving both crew and passengers in drug use and sales to outer islands.
“Just last week, we terminated a few employees over drugs and alcohol, which poses a significant risk for seafarers,” he noted.
Despite raising these concerns with the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), Mr. Goundar criticized the absence of effective governmental action.
“We have raised this issue with the MSAF, but there is no enforceable law from the Government,” he explained.
To address the persistent drug issues, Mr. Goundar is advocating for greater police transparency and onboard presence.
“Kadavu has been a major problem for us, and we have asked the police to be more transparent,” he said. “We can facilitate police presence on the vessel, but it’s unfortunate that we cannot take more action ourselves.”
In a further effort to combat the drug crisis, Goundar Shipping has instituted mandatory monthly drug tests for all crew members.
“Our stance is clear: we will not tolerate drugs on our vessels,” Mr. Goundar reiterated.
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