70 villagers from Beqa Island get boat master license [Source: Fijian Government]

Seventy villagers from Beqa island have received boat master and class 6 licensing certification.

Employment Minister Parveen Kumar says it’s their role to ensure the safety of people who travel in boats.

Kumar adds that all boat captains on the island now have the license to operate.

“I encourage all boat captains on Beqa Island to adhere to the maritime and safety laws and put in practice what you have learned from this training. The people of Beqa depend on you and you must return that trust by applying best practices of seafarer when operating a boat.”

He says such initiatives is the Government’s way of empowering Fijians to generate self-income.

“It is our hope that by generating income, it will inspire you to do more for your family and your community to a sustainable way of life.”

The ministry aims to encourage international laws and standards concerning safety at sea in Fiji.