'Critical deficiencies' found in Fiji ship grounding investigation

 

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RFNS Puamau was commissioned last month with support from Australia through the Pacific Maritime Security Program (PMSP) and Vuvale Partnership. Photo: Facebook / Fiji News & Sports

"Critical deficiencies" have been found in an investigation into the grounding of one of the Fiji Navy's ships.

RFNS Puamau was commissioned in May with support from Australia through the Pacific Maritime Security Program (PMSP) and Vuvale Partnership.

The vessel was midway through a two-week patrol tasking exercise when it struck the Fulaga Reef on Tuesday, 11 June.

In a statement, the military said it had concluded the investigation conducted by the board of inquiry (BOI) into the grounding.

"The thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding the incident highlighted critical deficiencies in procedures and standards within the Fiji Navy's maritime operations, particularly in navigation practices aboard the ship," the statement said.

The BOI's findings indicated "significant breaches, negligence, [and] non-adherence in the application of professional and accepted navigation practices and mariner skills".

They also found problems with the actions of the commanding officer and his command team - "non-compliance to accepted best bridge management processes... in the application of safety measures under such environmental conditions when in confined and hazardous waters close to Fulaga Island" and "certain best mariner practices and processes associated with use of navigation equipment for situational awareness and decision making was neglected by the commanding officer and his bridge team".

The board has made several recommendations as a result of the findings.

These include holding the commanding officer accountable for the ship's grounding; ensuring comprehensive patrol briefings and navigational planning; providing all seaman officers with navigation books; and reviewing bridge procedures during entry into confined waters.

The Republic of Fiji military forces said it is committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and safety within the Fiji Navy.

"By implementing the recommendations put forth by the BOl, we aim to prevent similar incidents and ensure the continued efficiency and effectiveness of our maritime operations."