Tobago Correspondent
Tobago stakeholders say there are valuable lessons to be learned from the maritime tragedy in Guyana.
The capsizing of the MV Barima has been described as a national disaster.
As investigations continue into the shocking incident, concerns have been raised over possible overcrowding of the vessel as several people who were rescued were not listed on the manifest.
The captain and engineer have also been arrested after cannabis was found in their system.
Tobago has grappled with its own marine incidents in the past, including the April 8 fatal jet ski crash at Pigeon Point beach that claimed the life of seven-year-old Angelica Jogie.
On October 5 last year, the popular Cool Runnings glass-bottom boat sank near No Man’s Land. Video of the incident went viral with a voice on a microphone urging passengers to “balance the boat.”
The person later ordered passengers to disembark the vessel quickly as it began to sink.
Twenty days later, the Rush Hour glass-bottom boats sank during a night tour at the Nylon Pool. Both incidents were investigated by the authorities for possible breaches of the marine park rules.
Alvin Douglas, owner of Tobago Marine Safety and Security Services, told Guardian Media yesterday that reef tour operators have avoided casualties in the past due to sheer luck.
He urged stakeholders to be proactive when it comes to the safety of clients as tourism is the lifeblood of the island’s economy.
“For a person on the ground like myself, we need to govern our space and make sure that the uniqueness of the island is taken care of. The marine sector is what sets us apart from Trinidad.”
Douglas, who also owns a dive shop at Store Bay Beach Facility, said the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) and central government must enforce the regulations even before vessels set sail.
“Make sure that the manifest is there; make sure everybody is licensed; make sure nobody is intoxicated while taking people out.”
Veteran tour operator Michael Frank, owner of Frankie Tours, sent condolences to the families of those affected.
“Boat is not something you play with. It is something serious and people’s lives you’re dealing with,” he said.
Frank believes the almost century-old MV Barima may not have been well maintained, adding that Tobago has a problem with inadequate infrastructure for the maintenance of vessels.
Frank said he is looking forward to the passage of the Buccoo Reef Marine Park bill, but not in its entirety.
He added that conversations are taking place with Chief Secretary Farley Augustine with the intention of making certain amendments.
Legal Affairs Secretary Adanna Joseph-Wallace told Guardian Media the absence of legislation has an impact on behaviour within the marine space. However, she said the THA has done its due diligence in the passage of the bill in April. Clauses of the bill address vessels exceeding capacity and operating watercrafts while intoxicated by drugs or alcohol.
