Eight Fishermen on Nevis Achieve Safety Certifications and Boat Master Licenses
A vital two-week Basic Safety Training Programme has successfully concluded for eight dedicated fishermen from Nevis, equipping them with essential skills and official certifications. The program, spearheaded by the Department of Marine Resources, aimed to bolster safety awareness, professional standards, and technical expertise within the island’s crucial fishing sector.
Comprehensive Training Enhances Competency
The intensive course, which ran from May 11 to May 22, culminated in a formal closing ceremony held on Friday, June 5, in Charlestown, Nevis. The initiative was designed to elevate the operational capabilities of local fishermen. A key outcome of the training is the attainment of Grade III boat Master Licenses, officially recognized and approved by the Department of Maritime Affairs. This approval permits the certified fishermen to legally operate vessels.
Under the guidance of Maritime Expert Sherwin Julius, participants delved into a wide array of critical topics. These included personnel safety, nautical terminology, rope work and knot tying, social responsibilities, radio communications, vessel stability, man-overboard prevention and recovery, and the rules of the road (COLREGS). The curriculum also covered basic navigation and engineering, sea survival techniques, emergency procedures, and awareness of fish aggregating devices (FADs).
Certifications in First Aid, CPR, and Firefighting Awarded
Further enhancing their preparedness, the fishermen also secured certifications in Basic First Aid, CPR, and AED from the World Academy of Safety and Health (WASH) during the closing ceremony. They also received foundational training in firefighting and fire prevention, crucial skills for maritime safety.
Eric Evelyn, the Minister of Marine Resources, was present at the closing ceremony to personally present the certificates to the eight successful participants. Minister Evelyn commended the organizers for their initiative in developing the skills of the local fishing community. He extended his congratulations to the graduates, acknowledging their significant achievements.
In an official social media post, Minister Evelyn shared highlights from the closing ceremony and congratulated the fishermen, stating, “Congratulations to the fishers on Nevis who completed a Basic Safety course organized by the Department of Marine Resources in collaboration with the World Academy of Safety and Health.” This program represents a significant step forward in ensuring the safety and professional development of Nevis’s fishing fleet.
