BVI Ports Authority tightens security

Thursday, February 5, 2004

ROAD TOWN, British Virgin Islands: The BVI Ports Authority is strengthening its security network in and around all ports in the territory to ensure they reach the safety standard required by the International Ship and Port Facility and Security Code. 

According to the Authority's International Ship and Port Facility Officer, Captain Bingley Richardson, the BVI and all countries which are signatories to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) must be in compliance with the Code before July 1, 2004. Otherwise, they will be subject to sanctions by the IMO.

The aim of the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code is to establish an international framework involving cooperation between contracting governments, government agencies, local administrations and shipping and port industries to detect and access security threats and take preventative measures against security incidents affecting ships and port facilities used in international trade.

Captain Richardson said the Ports Authority began tidying the physical surroundings of Port Purcell by clearing bushes and removing objects. "We intend to raise the fence around the compound and issue identification cards to port workers and passes to visitors," he told the Department of Information and Public Relations in a recent interview.

Regarding the cruise ship dock, Captain Richardson said there is a plan to set up restricted area to control the movement of people. "Anyone who wants to go on the dock without a legitimate reason will be denied access of entry," he said.

Captain Richardson also said that, while they will be tightening security on all ports and harbours, the Authority's security personnel will be given additional training to ensure they know how to deal with potential incidents that may threaten lives and safety of vessels.

Professionals in this field will come to the BVI to assist in the process of putting the security network in place before July 1. 

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