A local shipping magnate is taking a firm stance against the drug crisis impacting Fiji’s maritime industry. During the launch of Goundar Shipping Limited’s new passenger vessel, Lady Daya, Managing Director George Goundar announced that 18 employees had been dismissed due to drug and alcohol issues, demonstrating his commitment to eradicating drug abuse among staff and passengers.
Mr. Goundar stressed the urgency of addressing drug problems on his vessels. “We have zero tolerance for drugs among our crew members, and if anyone is found with drugs, they are not allowed on board,” he stated emphatically.
He highlighted the severity of the issue, revealing that drug use and sales have posed significant challenges, involving both crew members and passengers, particularly affecting outer islands. “We had just fired a few guys last week for drugs and alcohol, which is very risky for seafarers,” he added.
Mr. Goundar expressed disappointment over the lack of governmental action despite raising these concerns with the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF). “We have raised this issue with the MSAF, but there is no law that the Government can enforce here,” he explained.
In response to these ongoing issues, Mr. Goundar is advocating for increased transparency and presence of police on board the vessels. “Kadavu has been a significant problem for us, and we have been asking the police to be more transparent,” he noted. “We can facilitate police presence on the vessel, but it’s regrettable that we can’t take more action ourselves.”
To tackle the drug crisis further, 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 affirmed.