The Fiji Navy will undergo significant adjustments to its operational requirements and structures after the board of inquiry (BOI) findings into the grounding of the RFNS Puamau.
Navy Commander Commodore Humphrey Tawake said he was concerned with the findings of the BOI.
“The findings of the RFMF Independent BOI are a concern to me despite the professional development and resources provided to the Navy,” said Commodore Tawake.
“As part of the BOI findings, reforms and minor adjustments to our operation requirements and structure will be implemented as soon as practically possible.
“It’s to ensure compliance to processes and the standards to best navigational standards, enhance management processes and ship safety. This will include the review of training across ranks, appointments, key command team appointment criteria and leadership.”
Commodore Tawake said a firm and dedicated Navy compliance and audit unit would be established.
He said the unit would report directly to the office of the Navy commander to provide oversight and regular audits of operations training, administration, finance and logistical standards.
“I think that it’s about time we relook at how we rectify the findings of the BOI. We usually have the audit, but I think we should have a separate unit all together to minimise the potential damage posed in how we do our work and ensure we live up to the standards required of us.”
