A local shipping magnate is taking a firm stand against the drug crisis plaguing the maritime industry in Fiji. During the launch of the new passenger vessel, Lady Daya, George Goundar, managing director of Goundar Shipping Limited, announced the termination of 18 employees due to drug and alcohol issues, emphasizing his dedication to combating drug abuse among his crew and passengers.
Mr. Goundar expressed 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 the vessel,” he asserted.
He highlighted the severity of the situation, noting that drugs have been a major challenge for the company, involving both crew and passengers in drug use and sales to the outer islands. “We had just fired a few guys last week for drugs and alcohol, which is very risky for seafarers,” he said.
Despite bringing these issues to the attention of the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), Mr. Goundar criticized the lack of governmental action. “We have raised this issue with the MSAF, but there is no law that the Government can enforce here,” he explained.
In response to the ongoing drug issues, Mr. Goundar is calling for increased police transparency and presence on board. “Kadavu has been a significant problem for us, and we have been asking the police to be more transparent,” he stated. “We can facilitate police presence on the vessel, but it’s regrettable that we can’t take more action ourselves.”
To further 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 affirmed.