All fishing vessels to discontinue any crew changes on high seas or at any port visited

The Fiji Ports Corporation Limited has directed all fishing vessels, local and foreign, to follow set protocols and discontinue any crew changes on high seas or at any port visited.

Fiji Ports Chairman Shaheen Ali says they have met with local and foreign fishing vessel owners and agents last week informing them that all transfer and change of crew members has been suspended until further notice.

Ali says they will monitor the fishing vessels and its crew detail and all fishing vessel operators are required to provide vessel and crew details to the Harbour Master prior to arrival.

He says the verification of information will be conducted by Harbour Master in conjunction with other stakeholders, that is, Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Fiji Revenue and Customs Services, Department of Immigration and Biosecurity Authority of Fiji.

Ali says the Ministry of Health Officials will board the vessel to give clearance, while other stakeholders will proceed for inspections and approval for vessel to dock.

He says since January 2020, Fiji Ports has been taking proactive measures to combat against the COVID-19 pandemic and will continue to ensure the wellbeing of its staff and stakeholders.