Josateki Tagi is the president of the newly formed Institute of Maritime Officers Guild (IMOG) following their meeting last Thursday in Suva.

Local seafarers during last month’s World Seafarers Day had requested Government to recognise the formation of the IMOG to support their role including a place or space to be used as their centre.

Minister for Transport Faiyaz Koya, during the talanoa session delegated deputy secretary Lui Naisara and director Varanisese Kinivuwai to meet with the seafarers to formualise the issue.

Mr Tagi while presenting the issue said retired seafarers, sea masters and engineers, after serving time at sea, retire from service, go off and do something totally different.

“Their wealth of knowledge, experience and expertise advice are still intact in them, and we need to capture that wealth of capacity to better and strengthen the industry,” Mr Tagi said.

According to Mr Tagi IMOG is a pool of craftsmen, tradesmen, and those of similar professions.

“To advise Government, private sector and stakeholders; express our opinions and share our knowledge on maritime matters. Senior seafarers want to establish the institute to share their knowledge.”

Building of a Seamen Centre was also discussed at the talanoa session.

The centre is not only for the local seafarers, but also for foreign officers and crew members calling in.

“Most countries have their own seafarers designated centre, which we don’t have at the moment,” he said.

In the 1970 and 80s, the Flying Angel in Walu Bay served as a centre for seamen; it is now part of the Mission to the Seamen.

Mr Koya in acknowledging the issues raised by Mr Tagi, said the IMOG is a valuable place, where great minds of those that are retired, have the wealth of experience, and share valuable knowledge.

Office Bearers of IMOG are:

President: Josateki Tagi

Vice President: Capt. Chris McCaig

General Secretary: Lopeti Radravu

Treasurer: Capt. Bola Valenitabua

Committee Members: Jane Koi (President Women in Maritime), Sakaraia Tamani (Operations Manager South Sea Towage), and Capt. Sesoni Komaisoso.

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