The Shipping Association of Guyana (SAG) has welcomed the Maritime Administration Department’s (MARAD) acquisition of the new pilot launch, the ‘ML Kakabelly’, as well as its announcement about the training of new Pilots.
SAG looks forward to the benefits for its members, a release from the association said.
According to the association, for some time maritime industry operators have had to endure issues related to pilotage services, that have cost them time and money owing to the unavailability of pilots and an efficient Pilot Launch to service international vessels.
It is anticipated that the acquisition of this vessel, which is reported to be equipped with high tech computerised components, will hasten industry plans for continued training and human resource development, and will allow the Maritime Department to carry out its mandate more efficiently and effectively.
The release said that according to MARAD, the pilot launch is fast and outfitted to work at night. One implication is that it could play a role in the overall Port Development effort by adding to the facilities for Port Security. SAG also anticipates that it will complement the work of the older pilot launches, the ‘ML Thompson’ and the ‘ML Alan Younge’.
SAG looks forward to continued improvements and developments in the Demerara Harbour that includes capital dredging of the channel to an adequate depth of 6.5 metres.
The current shallow draught of approximately 4.5 metres continues to inhibit the passage of large laden freight vessels through the navigational channel into Port Georgetown. This could eventually cause the cessation of international marine traffic if not urgently addressed, the release added.
