Fiji's Maritime Authority rejects claims of ignoring shipping operator concerns

The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has rejected allegations from Interlink Shipping Ltd that the company's concerns have been disregarded. MSAF asserts that it has actively engaged in multiple discussions with the shipping operator and other industry stakeholders regarding issues impacting the maritime sector.

“

MSAF says it has already held several discussions with the operator and other stakeholders on issues affecting the maritime sector.

MSAF highlighted that matters concerning crewing, certification requirements, and workforce shortages are ongoing topics of discussion with industry players. The authority stated that claims of these concerns being overlooked do not align with the discussions and actions already undertaken. While acknowledging a shortage of qualified seafarers, MSAF emphasized that any requests to hire foreign crew must strictly adhere to legal, certification, immigration, and regulatory standards.

“

The Authority said matters involving crewing, certification requirements and workforce shortages are not new and remain under ongoing engagement with industry players.

The authority stressed that decisions regarding maritime safety and crewing standards must follow established procedures and cannot be made outside of regulatory frameworks. MSAF also contested comments that linked maritime incidents to the competency of local Fijian seafarers, labeling such claims as serious and requiring substantiation with evidence.

“

It said decisions on maritime safety and crewing standards must follow established processes and cannot be made outside the rules.

MSAF affirmed that Fijian seafarers continue to serve maritime communities throughout the country, often under challenging conditions, and their contributions deserve recognition. The authority reiterated its commitment to collaborating with shipping operators while upholding safety standards and maintaining public confidence in the maritime sector.

“

The Authority also rejected comments linking maritime incidents to the competency of local seafarers, saying such claims are serious and must be backed by evidence.