The GDFS 1034, one of two new patrol vessels commissioned yesterday.
In a bid to improve its patrols of the waterways, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard yesterday officially commissioned two Metal Shark vessels, worth approximately $140 million each, with President David Granger doing the honours.
“Guyana must continue to ensure the safety of our sea lane so that ships can enjoy safe passage within and through our waters. Guyana, being an exportoriented country has to ensure that our sea lane is secured. The repletion of our shipping industry has been threatened by the abuse of our waters from the transshipment of narcotics and the smuggling of contraband,” Granger said yesterday at the Guyana Coast Guard Ship Hinds before commissioning the two 38-ft vessels.
He charged members of the Coast Guard to protect the integrity of the waters and clamp down on illegal activities that have been depriving the country of revenue and ruining its reputation as a safe destination for investors.
“Our territorial waters are extensive,” the President noted. “It is easy for vessels to discharge contraband and transport it. It therefore means that the Coast Guard must be equipped, must have the capability to respond to emergencies within our waters including the responsibility to conduct search and rescue missions at sea. The Coast Guard therefore needs a stronger and larger fleet of vessels.” Granger assured the GDF that his administration is doing everything possible to ensure that the Coast Guard is well equipped to effectively discharge its functions.
He said the two vessels are essential for national security and are intended to improve the capabilities of the state to protect its resources and to provide