MSAF to monitor passenger ships to ensure there is no overloading

The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji has confirmed that it will be monitoring passenger ships this festive season to ensure there is no overloading of passengers or any other breaches of the Maritime Legislations which endanger the lives of the crew and passengers.

Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji CEO, John Tunidau has stressed that overloading of passenger ships puts the safety of passengers and crew alike at risk.

He adds that owners, operators and Masters who engage in this practice are liable to face criminal charges and administrative action in accordance with the Maritime Transport Act 2013.

Tunidau says that all ships must also ensure they have all the required Life Saving Equipment such as life jackets and life rafts and passengers and crew are made aware on how to access them during emergencies.

He says that non‑compliance with the Maritime Legislation could result in criminal prosecution, suspension or cancellation of master's Certification of Competency, detention of the ship and up to $100,000 fines.

Tunidau has also highlighted that members of the public who are travelling to outer islands are urged to adhere to all safety regulations and remain cautious at all times when travelling on inter‑island ships.

Meanwhile, the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji continues it’s investigations into the sinking of the landing barge, Kaiwai that sank on the 28th of last month.