BY MAVIS N PODOKOLO
THE arrival of the new Guardian Class Patrol Boat, the Royal Solomon Island Police Vessel (RSIPV) 06 Taro will enhance maritime surveillance at the border.
This boost is crucial with the increasing number of covid-19 cases in neighbouring Bougainville.
This sentiment was echoed by Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare during the official lunch and welcome of RSIPV 06 Taro yesterday.
“With the increase of COVID-19 cases on neighbouring Bougainville – the RSIPV Gizo and four fast boats – have stepped up their maritime surveillances at the border. RSIPV Taro has arrived at the right time. It will reinforce the RSIPF’s fast response capabilities – in the hard-to-reach areas of our western and north western border.
Therefore, having such capability to prepare for disasters in order to reduce or eliminate long-term effects to people and their property from hazards and to respond to and recover from major incidents is a blessing,” Sogavare said.
“It marks another significant milestone in our deep and enduring partnership – founded on our shared values – and commitment to a sovereign – safe – and prosperous Pacific.”
The new Guardian Class Patrol Boat departed Darwin for Honiara on June 8, 2021. Upon arrival the crews were quarantined and on June 22, the crews graduated and came alongside Aola base Wharf in preparation for the event yesterday.
