Permanency plan for Duke of York sea checkpoints

Permanent sea safety checkpoints will be established following last month’s fatal boating mishap near the Pigeon Islands, according to Duke of York Island local level government [LLG] president Jack Kongkong.

The initiative follows the July 18 incident in East New Britain, which prompted local authorities to tighten sea transport regulations between the islands and the mainland.

Kongkong confirmed four inspection spots are currently operational, including the primary station at the Kokopo beachfront and three peripheral posts at Makada, Kabakon, and Pigeon islands.

The checkpoints are currently manned by LLG officers with assistance from local police and personnel from the Kokopo Police Station.

Kongkong said the disaster was a wake-up call for government action to protect passengers traveling from the Duke of York LLG and neighboring New Ireland Province, noting a history of fatal sea mishaps in the area.

He said the inspection points are designed to enforce safety measures, including mandatory life-jacket usage, strict compliance with loading limits, and preventing alcohol, drug smuggling, and passenger drunkenness on dinghies.

"I will be putting through a proposal at the LLG assembly for these checkpoints to remain for an initial 12-month period, backed by adequate operational funding," Kongkong said. "Once approved, it will be presented to the Kokopo City Authority board for further support."

He said long-term plans include constructing a permanent monitoring facility on Big Pigeon Island.

Kongkong indicated the LLG is reviewing options to raise the passenger limit from six to eight and introduce standardized fares based on route distance. This will be done to address financial losses reported by boat operators due to current travel restrictions,

He also clarified travel restrictions, stating that Mondays remain designated non-travel days to accommodate ward government meetings and community work sessions. Travel to Kokopo on Mondays is restricted unless cleared by a Ward Member a day in advance for emergencies, work, or school returns.