As the country recovers from the weekend’s deadly boat collision off the west coast, the Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA) says it will review the investigation’s findings to determine whether additional safety measures are needed.
The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force is leading the investigation, and SLASPA says it is helping through its Department of Maritime Affairs by providing the required regulatory and technical support.
The authority said it plans to carefully assess the outcome of the investigation.
“Following the conclusion of the investigation, the Authority will carefully review its findings and recommendations and, where appropriate, implement measures to further strengthen maritime safety in Saint Lucia,” it said.
SLASPA also confirmed its role as the country’s maritime regulator and said it is committed to keeping Saint Lucia’s waters safe and well-managed through regulations, oversight, collaboration with stakeholders and public awareness.
The authority offered condolences to the families and friends of those who died and acknowledged the extent to which this tragedy has affected the wider maritime community.
“This heartbreaking incident has deeply saddened the maritime community and the nation as a whole. Our thoughts and prayers are also with those who were injured or otherwise affected by this tragedy, and we wish them a full and speedy recovery.”
Police are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision as the search continues for the bodies of those still missing.
Full SLASPA statement
The Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA) extends its deepest condolences to the families, loved ones, and friends of the individuals who tragically lost their lives following the boating collision off the coast of Saint Lucia.
This heartbreaking incident has deeply saddened the maritime community and the nation as a whole. Our thoughts and prayers are also with those who were injured or otherwise affected by this tragedy, and we wish them a full and speedy recovery.
The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force is leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding this incident. In keeping with its statutory responsibilities, SLASPA, through its Department of Maritime Affairs, is providing the necessary regulatory and technical support to the relevant authorities as required during the investigative process. The Authority will continue to cooperate fully with the investigating agencies.
SLASPA remains committed to fulfilling its mandate as Saint Lucia’s maritime regulator by promoting the safe and orderly use of the nation’s waters through effective regulation, oversight, stakeholder engagement, and public awareness. Following the conclusion of the investigation, the Authority will carefully review its findings and recommendations and, where appropriate, implement measures to further strengthen maritime safety in Saint Lucia.
On behalf of the Authority, we once again extend our heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved families during this difficult time. May they find strength, comfort, and peace in the support of their families, friends, and the wider community.
