St Kitts and Nevis acquires new “Prosperity” vessel to enhance marine resources

Basseterre, St Kitts and Nevis: St Kitts and Nevis held a small but significant commissioning ceremony of Enforcement Vessel “Prosperity” on Wednesday, 31st August 2024. This vessel has been set by the administration with a vision to prevent the island nation from harmful activities and protect the ocean coastline.

While shedding light on the main purpose of this vessel, Minister of Sports, Agriculture, Fisheries, Samal Duggins stated that it is their efforts to increasing compliance with their fisheries and marine resources laws and regulations and deterring illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.

Along with that, the vessel will also play a huge role in curbing national security issues such as human trafficking, drug trafficking, and smuggling activities within the waters by fishing vessels.

The vessel has been acquired through Japan’s Grant Aid for the Economic and Social Development Programme. This support from the Japan stands as a testament to the enduring and strong partnership between both the nations.

For the same, Minister Duggins has extended heartfelt gratitude to the people of Japan for making this incredible advancement possible. He also extended gratitude to the stakeholders and the staff at the Department of Marine Resources and the Ministry for their unwavering support and commitment towards the protection of coastline.

Moreover, Randel Thompson, the Director of Department of Marine Resources also shed light on this vessel and stated that it will play a crucial role in bolstering marine safety through patrols, and facilitating swift responses in search and rescue operations.

He also extended gratitude to their partnering agency, St Kitts and Nevis Coast Guard for their collaboration in fishing vessel inspections, joint patrols, and resources. He further stated that their partnership shed light on the efforts undertaken by the Coast Guard towards the betterment and enhancement of maritime safety.

The Department of Marine Resources also thanked St. Kitts-Nevis Customs and Excise Department, the Department of Maritime Affairs, SCASPA, and the Department of Environment for their constant support and help towards the betterment of marine department of the island nation.