Marine accidents, pollution and climate change were among the topics addressed when stakeholders from the public and private sectors met this month to discuss maritime safety in the territory.
At the May 15 session hosted by the Premier’s Office, attendees considered efforts to enhance preventative measures and strengthen collaboration among agencies and organisations responsible for safeguarding the Virgin Islands’ waters.
The meeting was part of the government’s ongoing efforts to comply with the Merchant Shipping Act and the International Maritime Organisation’s mandatory Casualty Investigation Code, according to Premier’s Office Permanent Secretary Carolyn Stoutt-Igwe.
“Maritime safety remains a top priority for the Virgin Islands,” Ms. Stoutt-Igwe said. “Today’s meeting demonstrates our commitment to fostering collaboration and ensuring that our waters are safe for residents, visitors and future generations.”
She also encouraged participants to continue collaborating to protect the marine environment and people who depend on it. Chief Marine Accident Investigation Officer Jerome Padmore also spoke.
Among other topics, he explained the process of marine safety accident investigations and stressed their importance in identifying causes and preventing future accidents, according to government.
Also during the meeting, attendees gave presentations on their roles in promoting marine safety and responding to incidents at sea, government stated.
The VI Shipping and Maritime Authority, for instance, explained safety strategies and emphasised the importance of strict protocols for water users.
Representatives from the Royal VI Police Force reported on marine incidents and explained measures they have taken to improve safety.
The VI Fire and Rescue Service discussed lifeguard operations, while the non-profit VI Search and Rescue focused on building safety awareness through community outreach.
The Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change explained marine pollution and urged collaboration for resource protection.
Meanwhile, the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College listed available educational initiatives for marine professionals, and the non-profit Kids and the Sea explained a programme that teaches boating safety to children through camps.
The Marine Association of the BVI noted its commitment to safety in the charter industry, according to government.
Other attendees
Also represented were the Governor’s Office, the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, the BVI Ports Authority, the National Parks Trust, the 911 Call Handling Centre, the Fishermen’s Association, the BVI Charter Yacht Society, Nanny Cay and The Moorings, according to government.
For more information, call the Premier’s Office at 468-2087.
British Caribbean News
