Government orders inquiry into deadly Anse Cochon boat collision

Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has announced that the Government will appoint a Commission of Inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the boat accident at Anse Cochon that claimed the lives of four Saint Lucians.

According to a government statement issued on Wednesday, the Governor General will formally appoint the Commission, which will be chaired by a former high-ranking member of the judiciary.

The Commission will also include experts in maritime operations and marine safety, as well as a police investigator.

Its mandate will include making recommendations aimed at strengthening maritime safety, improving regulatory oversight and reducing the risk of similar tragedies in the future.

Prime Minister Pierre said the loss of lives had deeply affected the nation and highlighted the Government’s responsibility to establish the facts surrounding the incident and ensure that lessons are learned.

“The Government is committed to ensuring that the Commission’s work results in meaningful improvements that enhance the safety of everyone who uses Saint Lucia’s waters,” the statement said.

The commission’s terms of reference will be announced at a later date.

Last Saturday night, around 11:55 p.m., two vessels, Ocean Angel and Mango Tours collided. Mango Tours sank after the impact, while Ocean Angel sustained damage.

The article Government orders inquiry into deadly Anse Cochon boat collision is from St. Lucia Times.