(De Ware Tijd) PARAMARIBO – The government wants to bring order to the so-called Back-Track route in the second half of 2012. In January 2012, preparations will start for the establishment of the Coast Guard. “The Coast Guard, a civilian organization, will be composed of several agencies that have a responsibility in the maritime area.” President Desi Bouterse said this in Parliament on Wednesday. The President was replying to questions from Parliamentarians about the community’s sense of safety and security. He also announced measures to deal with the “chaotic situation” at the border post Albina by the first quarter of 2012. In this framework, immigration and Customs officials will be prepared for the new challenges. Bringing order to the flow of foreign nationals at the border posts will be a higher priority of the government. The President also discussed law enforcement, safety and security in Suriname’s maritime territory. Besides the international obligations in this regard, such as search and rescue operations, Suriname also has the responsibility for law enforcement and security. Illegal fishing and robberies at sea also damage the national economy. The President announced the establishment of the Coast Guard in this framework.
