The Maritime Authority have been working closely with local operators to undertake inspections across a full range of vessel types, nationalities and ages. The aim is to target a minimum of 5% of vessels each year. 4 jiggers, 1 trawler, 1 tanker and 1 reefer have been inspected so far this year. A total of 70 deficiencies were identified, with 3 vessels detained and 3 improvement notices issued.
The 3 vessels detained were all jiggers, with an average of 20 deficiencies per vessel. The most serious deficiencies related to fire safety, watertight integrity, and lack of crew familiarity with essential safety systems onboard the vessels. The vessels were required to remain within Port William until the deficiencies were rectified. The vessels took between 3 and 7 days to complete the rectification work, and all are now fishing within the zone.
The Authority would like to thank the vessel crews and operators for the positive way in which the inspections were received and the hard work that was undertaken to rectify the problems. We look forward to continuing the inspection program as we strive to drive up vessel standards.