Chinese fishing vessel Shi Dao caught pumping out oil into the sea near the Fiji Ships and Heavy Industries dock at Walu Bay in Suva last Saturday has paid its $20k fine and has left the country.
Responding from queries yesterday, FPCL has confirmed Shi Dao has paid her $20,000 fine for breaching the Sea Ports Management Regulations 2008 after it was caught pumping out oil into the sea.
“The Fiji Ports Corporation Limited (FPCL) is reminding members of the public and all port users that it does not and will not condone any form of pollution within the waters of any Fiji Port,” the statement stated.
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“Concerned public and our pollution team investigation and assessment have revealed that those in charge of the vessel had no knowledge of the offense and that it was a specific crew member’s negligence.
“FPCL is urging members of the public to join its fight against sea pollution by reporting any form of contamination in the harbour.”
Meanwhile Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji chief executive officer John Tunidau said any action against pollution from ships within the port boundary was handled by Fiji Ports Corporation Limited.
“FPCL can prosecute oil spills under the Sea Port Management Act and Regulations. MSAF only responds to an oil spill to contain and remove such spills when reported and if required for such incidents,” Mr Tunidau said.
“For pollution outside of the port boundary, MSAF can prosecute under the MTA 2013 and regulations and also respond to such spills.
“MSAF is always concerned of any marine spill that occurs within Fiji waters and especially when one of MSAF’s core role is the protection of Fiji’s marine environment from marine spills.
“Such incidents should be reported immediately to FPCL and MSAF so that appropriate action can be taken immediately,” he said.
