Fiji Ports has initiated a call to abandon the high-sea vessel clearance requirement, citing concerns over safety and outdated practices. Harbour Master Laisiasa Gonewai presented this issue to the Standing Committee on Justice, Law, and Human Rights, highlighting that Fiji is currently the only country in the region that necessitates officers to board vessels at sea. He pointed out that this practice often occurs in hazardous conditions at pilot stations or quarantine anchorages, leading to serious safety risks for both the officers and crews involved.
Gonewai emphasized that while all vessels must be cleared before docking, the existing at-sea boarding protocol frequently results in delays and incidents that jeopardize safety. He noted that international best practices advocate for boarding only after vessels have secured alongside the wharf. Gonewai further stated that high-sea boardings are predominantly required for ships arriving from malaria-affected ports, questioning the relevance of this rule in contemporary maritime operations.
This push for modernization within the clearance process is part of a broader scrutiny toward maritime safety in Fiji, particularly in light of recent incidents such as passenger vessels running aground and ferry regulatory challenges. The calls for reform come as the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) is also seeking major legislative changes to address compliance issues. These changes include reinstating a 20-year age limit for operating vessels and imposing stricter penalties for violations.
The focus on updating clearance protocols reflects a growing commitment to elevate the standards of maritime safety and efficiency in Fiji. Streamlining vessel processing at ports could significantly enhance safety measures, reduce turnaround times, and improve coordination between port and quarantine teams. Amidst the ongoing reform efforts, there is an optimistic outlook that these changes will foster a safer, more efficient, and environmentally responsible shipping industry in Fiji.