Fiji Ports Corporation is pushing for improved accountability and enhanced oversight among quarantine officers at the country’s ports, citing significant safety concerns and inconsistencies in their practices. In a recent address to the Standing Committee on Justice, Law and Human Rights, Manager Legal Vani Filipe stressed the urgent need for a national register that would track the qualifications, training, and appointments of these officers. Establishing such a register would ensure that only certified personnel are authorized to board incoming vessels, enhancing safety standards.
Filipe raised alarm over inadequate oversight, noting incidents where officers have boarded ships without proper protective gear or adequate clearance. This, she argued, poses serious risks to the safety of crew members, port employees, and national biosecurity. “Currently, we are in the process of streamlining our quarantine officers’ operations, and it is crucial for us to have confidence that they are both qualified and well-equipped,” she said.
The inconsistency in how officers operate was also highlighted, with some boarding vessels under differing conditions across various locations. For instance, officers in Lautoka work within port limits, while their counterparts in Suva operate 27 miles offshore. Fiji Ports Harbour Master Laisiasa Gonewai emphasized the importance of abolishing high-sea vessel clearances, labeling the existing procedures as unsafe and outdated. He noted that international guidelines recommend officers board vessels only after they have safely docked, pushing for modernization in Fiji’s maritime practices.
The push for reform aims to not only align with international standards but also to restore public trust in Fiji’s maritime industry. By prioritizing safety and consistency, Fiji Ports Corporation is taking a proactive approach to tackle existing challenges, potentially leading to a more efficient operational environment. As the nation grapples with these important changes, there is optimism that the reforms will enhance maritime operations, safeguard workers and environmental standards, and ultimately stimulate economic growth through boosted trade and tourism.