NMSA warns boat owners to follow sea safety laws

The National Maritime Safety Authority [NMSA] will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute small boat owners and operators who do not comply to the Small Craft Act (SCA) 2011.

NMSA Chief Executive Officer, Pawa Limu issued this warning in light of the recent boat incidents in East New Britain and New Ireland provinces and said, small boat owners, operators and passengers in the maritime provinces must exercise responsibility and comply with sea safety measures.

Communities in the 15 maritime communities who use the sea for their daily sustenance have been warned to check local weather report, inform others of where you are going, always wear life jacket, ensure to take extra food and drinking water, make sure the outboard motor is working properly, not to get on boat with drunkards and overload passengers.

The NMSA reminded provincial governments of the 15 maritime provinces to ensure a high-level maritime safety is enforced on people who rely on the sea for livelihood.

Mr Limu said the maritime provinces must take full responsibility to ensure SCA 2011 is effectively implemented to improve sea safety for owners and operators.

“Under the law for practical implementation and enforcement, each maritime province has different circumstances and challenges that require local solutions,” Limu said.

Mr Limu warned all boat owners, operators and passengers that anyone caught breaching the Small Craft Act will face the consequences of the law.

The NMSA Maritime Rescue Coordinating Centre [MRCC] is on standby to assist all distresses in any emergency.

MRCC can be contacted on toll free number 73517017 or email address mrcc@nmsa.gov.pg