Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, has called for immediate measures following the recent Lomaiviti Princess II (LP II) incident in Suva Harbour.

During a site inspection on Sunday, the Minister was joined by members of the Joint Maritime Environment Protection Committee (JMEC), comprising representatives from the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), Fiji Ports Corporation Limited (FPCL), the Department of Transport, and the Fiji Police Force.

Minister Tuisawau stressed the need to protect Suva’s marine environment and cultural significance.

“We must safeguard Suva Harbour and the peninsula entrusted to the nation by the Vanua of Navukavu, Na Turaga Rokobaleni, the Vanua of Nadonumai, and the Tui Suva of Rewa Province. Our responsibility is to preserve and protect this area from harm,” he stated.

He expressed disappointment with the handling of the LP II operation, labelling the vessel’s towing process as reckless and lacking proper oversight.

“I have ordered a full investigation into this matter. The absence of checks and monitoring is unacceptable,” Minister Tuisawau said.

The government is working to contain the oil spill from the wreck. Oil containment booms and dispersants have been deployed to limit environmental damage. Plans are also underway to refloat and relocate the LP II to clear the navigation channel before the wreck’s removal.

Further measures, including potential involvement of the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO), are being assessed.

On derelict vessels, JMEC continues efforts to address abandoned ships in Fiji’s waters. The committee has been coordinating removals, prioritising high-risk wrecks, and liaising with international partners such as UNESCAP to secure technical and financial support for clean-up and site rehabilitation projects.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to maritime safety, environmental protection, and the uninterrupted functioning of port services.