Hope for positive change from RSS course

The closure of the Regional Security System (RSS) Maritime Training Unit in Antigua has made life difficult for the agency.

Deputy Executive Director of the Regional Security Systems, Major Horace Kirton, outlined that since its discontinuation in 2010, no maritime training programmes had been held until last year, leading to a deficiency in the area of technical ability.

“The RSS has always enjoyed having a cadre of officers who were extremely adept at protecting the marine environment. They proved to be even more adept at producing remarkable outcomes with so little resources. These skilled officers are soon set to leave our ranks,” he said, while addressing the
recent closing of the RSS Basic Seamanship Course.

“You therefore are the ones who will be expected to accept the baton on leadership and chart a new strategic path for our maritime sector. You are now to hone the skills required to prepare yourself for the future,” he told those 22 members of the RSS from various Caribbean states gathered at the headquarters of the Barbados Coast Guard for the ceremony.

He therefore called the course timely, while expressing his hopes that this and other programmes like it would make a significant difference for RSS maritime agencies.

“These programmes are even more timely since, apart from the impact of our deficiencies in our vessel complement on successful border security operations, the inexperience of maritime personnel on proper boat handling and operational procedure have contributed to a few unsuccessful operations. In this regard, we remain committed to the further development of maritime skills through training
for recruits, junior and senior servicemen and women,” he said. (JMB)