Our safety out at sea is a collective responsibility and members of the public are to follow the safety requirements promoted by the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji.

Those were the words of Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama while officially opening a new MSAF office in Taveuni.

Bainimarama says that the new office will further improve the service delivery of government to the Island.

He says that MSAF outreach and presence throughout Fiji is expanding and he is confident that maritime safety awareness and compliance will greatly improve.

Bainimarama says that MSAF officers will now be able to track ships for any problems which might compromise their ability to sail as well as ensure that all safety equipment is present and working.

He also highlighted that MSAF will ensure that there is no overloading of ships.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister is calling on Maritime Safety Officers to be vigilant and keep a full eye on the safety of men, women and children on board ships and boats that leave different ports.

He says that the consequences of not doing so comes with a very heavy price.

Plans are also in place to open MSAF offices in Labasa, Kadavu and Rotuma soon.