Bridge collision probe recommends records be kept on pilots, ships masters

Damage to the Demerara Harbour Bridge and the vessel as a result of the accident. (BoI report pictures)

Apart from implementing several policies in keeping with international standards and the requirement for annual medical tests for river pilots, the Board of Inquiry (BoI) into the major accident at the Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB) earlier this month has recommended that the conduct of pilots and ships’ masters should be documented.

Also, Kenneth Cort, the suspended pilot of the Panamanian registered vessel, MV Tradewind Passion involved in the collision can only return to duty after a process or recertification, assessment of his competency to operate as a pilot by the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD).

These are among recommendations which were made by the Ministry of Public Work’s BoI report which was released yesterday.