VP discusses marine security with State officials

Vice President Faisal Naseem has engaged in discussions with senior officials from State agencies regarding marine safety and security.

The discussions took place at the President’s Office this Sunday.

Senior officials from Transport Ministry, Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) and the Coastguard took part in the discussions.

The President’s Office reports that the officials discussed additional measures to ascertain marine safety and security, establishment of a more effective mechanism to monitor for vessels in distress, and explored possible legislative changes during the meeting.

The officials also discussed marine safety awareness programs, and additional safety precautions for small vessels.

According to the President’s Office, the officials also discussed conducting assessments to gauge the effectiveness of implementation of existing legislature and regulations on marine safety. They agreed to remedy the issues through the National Search and Rescue Committee.

The high-level discussions regarding marine safety comes two weeks after a speedboat carrying passenger from H. Dh. Nolhivaram to H. Dh. Hanimaadhoo overturned, resulting in five fatalities.

Discussions are underway regarding making lifejackets compulsory on all passenger boats.