Marine Safety Authority Advances Investigation into July
The Marine Safety Investigation and Reporting Authority (MSIRA) has announced progress in the investigation of a boating accident that occurred last July, involving the MV Mojaito near Brandywine Bay. The incident, which resulted in no injuries thanks to the prompt action of nearby boaters, is under thorough review to enhance maritime safety and prevent future occurrences.
The British Virgin Islands' Marine Safety Investigation and Reporting Authority (MSIRA) is making significant headway in its investigation of a maritime accident that took place on July 26, involving the 31-foot Stamas 310 Tarpon, MV Mojaito. The vessel encountered an unfortunate incident while returning to Village Cay, Tortola, from the 'Xmas in July' event held in Virgin Gorda.
Chief Marine Safety Accident Investigator, Mr. Jerome Padmore, revealed that the boat struck a green steel lateral buoy approximately 0.4 nautical miles south of the Brandywine Bay entrance, causing it to suffer structural damage and partially sink. Fortunately, all ten individuals aboard the MV Mojaito were rescued safely by nearby boaters, with no reported injuries.
Padmore emphasized the depth of the ongoing investigation, stating, 'Safety accident investigations typically involve in-depth examinations of systems, procedures, and human factors.' He assured the public of a comprehensive review process aimed at not only understanding the precise cause of the accident but also at improving maritime safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The MSIRA, operating under the Premier’s Office, is the official body tasked with the independent investigation of marine accidents within the territorial waters of the Virgin Islands. Adhering to the Merchant Shipping (Accident Reporting and Investigation) Regulations of 2020 and the International Maritime Organisation's Casualty Investigation Code, the Authority's investigations focus on identifying safety issues and issuing recommendations without seeking to apportion blame or liability.
This incident has highlighted the importance of reporting all marine accidents to the MSIRA, as required by law, to enhance maritime safety through proactive measures. As the BVI community continues to prioritize safety in its vibrant boating and maritime activities, the ongoing investigation by MSIRA into the MV Mojaito incident serves as a reminder of the critical nature of rigorous safety standards and the collective responsibility in maintaining them.