Local authorities caution over unlawful leisure activities in port areas |13 May 2025
The press conference
Local authorities caution over unlawful leisure activities in port areas
 By Anika Cathene
Local authorities have warned the public to refrain from carrying out leisure activities such as swimming in the vicinity of all ports, particularly within the channels designated for vessels entering and exiting the ports.
The entities held a press conference at the Botanical House yesterday morning to advise the public, amid rising safety concerns. Present were the principal secretary for Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine, David Bianchi; chief executive of the 91Ï㽶ÊÓƵ Ports Authority (SPA), Sony Payet; Harbour Master Captain Jean-Paul Fanchette; chief executive of the 91Ï㽶ÊÓƵ Maritime Safety Authority (SMSA), Captain Daniel Adam; deputy chief executive of the 91Ï㽶ÊÓƵ Fisheries authority (SFA), Aubrey Lesperance; Captain Samuel King from the 91Ï㽶ÊÓƵ Coast Guard and Dominic Savy from the Marine Accident Investigation Board (MAIB).
The agencies emphasised that swimming, diving, fishing and snorkelling in these zones pose serious safety risks due to heavy maritime traffic and operational hazards. Members of the public are strongly urged to refrain from entering these waters, as such activities are illegal and could also endanger lives.