Goundar Shipping Ltd (GSL) this month expressed its concerns and disappointment online regarding the conduct and operations of certain members of the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) board.
The company, according to their Facebook post earlier this month, had requested an urgent and thorough investigation into what the company allege are serious matters of corruption, bias, and abuse of authority.
The company went on to state that it has invested $9 million in the development and deployment of a state-of-the-art fast ferry, which had met all technical and safety conditions as per MSAF requirements.
“Despite full compliance, the vessel continues to remain idle, apparently due to undue interference and overreach by certain board members,” the company stated.
In response to the post made by GSL, the Public Works Meteorological Services and Transport Minister, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, last week said he had taken note of the public statements disseminated by Goundar Shipping Ltd which contained serious allegations.
Ro Filipe assured the public and stakeholders in the maritime industry that the ministry treats such matters with utmost seriousness.
“Good governance, transparency and accountability are fundamental principles that guide the operations of all statutory bodies under the ministry’s purview,” Ro Filipe said.
“It is also important to note that MSAF, as a statutory regulator, is mandated to make independent, technical, and safety-based decisions. These decisions, including those related to vessel registrations, inspections and certifications, are guided by regulatory frameworks, international obligations and the need to uphold maritime safety in Fiji.
“That said, the public is also reminded that under the Ship Registration Act 2013, the decision to approve registration of a ship more than 20 years old, imported for the purposes of operating commercially in Fiji waters, rests with the minister in consultation with MSAF. As minister I only receive recommendations for approval.
“Any other non-compliance or matters of concern is between MSAF as regulator and the operator. I will not interfere, but will ensure that public safety remains paramount.
The MSAF Act is under review to align provisions to international standards and compliance.”
He reminded the public and operators of its respective right to appeal or lodge any grievances regarding regulatory decisions through the appropriate legal or administrative channels.
“Public allegations while a right in any democratic society, must be made responsibly and with integrity to ensure that due process is not compromised nor wild Facebook allegations undermine personal and professional integrities and MSAF in general.”
The Ministry of Public Works Meteorological Services and Transport remains committed to supporting a safe, efficient and well-regulated maritime sector and to working constructively through the appropriate regulatory authorities, with all stakeholders in the industry.
