Some policy changes will be made by the Transport Ministry next year to safeguard the passengers using sea transportation.

Minister, Jone Usmate made the revelation after serious concerns were raised by the public ahead of the festive season in regards to poor services offered by vessels operators.

Usamate says the existing policy does not protect the rights of passengers and only focuses on the safety measures.

“In 2019 there will be changes made. We will hold vessel operators accountable and ensure that they uphold passenger rights. Now that we have seen the ugly head of these problems – changes need to be made.”

Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji officers are currently monitoring all vessels to ensure operators abide by the current laws in place.