The Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport, Hon. Ro Filipe Tuisawau, today led a site visit to the wreck of the Lomaiviti Princess II (LP II) and other derelict vessels within Suva Harbour. He was accompanied by some members of the Joint Maritime Environment Protection Committee (JMEC), which includes representatives from the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), Fiji Ports Corporation Limited (FPCL), the Department of Transport, and the Fiji Police Force.
Minister Tuisawau emphasized the importance of protecting Suva’s marine and cultural heritage:
“We must ensure that we safeguard the Suva Harbour and Peninsula at all times. This land and maritime area was entrusted by the Vanua of Navukavu, Na Turaga Rokobaleni, and the Vanua of Nadonumai and Tui Suva of Rewa Province for the benefit of the nation. It is our duty to honour that trust by preserving and protecting it from harm. There are too many loopholes hence Cabinet approval for a thorough legislative review. I have expressed by disappointment with what happened in this LPII incident where the ship seems to have been towed without proper checking and monitoring. Its just sheer recklessness and I have ordered a full investigation. This whole Suva Harbour situation is a failure of the State to perform its duty in the upkeep of the Harbour and the environment over the years. It is our responsibility to move faster and fix the mess and that is what I want from our Govt entities now!!! I also condemn these shipping companies for their basically criminal behaviour for dumping ships and running!!
The Government is actively undertaking all necessary measures to contain the oil spill and mitigate any environmental damage. Oil containment booms have been deployed around the vessel to prevent the spread of oil. Oil dispersants are also applied to minimize damage and reducing harm to the surrounding marine ecosystem. The next steps in the response operation include plans to refloat and reposition the LP II to clear the navigation channel, followed by the removal of the wreck.
Further actions, including the possible referral to the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO), will be considered as the situation evolves.
On the issue of derelict ships, JMEC has been proactively working to address the growing concern of derelict and abandoned vessels in Fiji’s ports and harbours. Derelict ships continue to be removed and disposed off. The process of coordination of stakeholder collaboration, JMEC identification of priority wrecks and initiation of legal and operational processes to support removal continues. The committee continues to engage with international partners, including UNESCAP, to secure technical and financial assistance for comprehensive wreck removal and site rehabilitation projects across Fiji.
The Government remains fully committed to safeguarding maritime safety, preserving the environment, and ensuring minimal disruption to port operations and essential public services.
