SA Navy made progress in managing DAFF's research vessels

According to an agreement between the DAFF and the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, the SA Navy would take over and perform the shipping management functions of the DAFF for 12 months, starting April 2012.

The DAFF fleet includes the fisheries research vessels Africana, Algoa and Ellen Khuzwayo and the patrol vessels Sarah Baartman, Lilian Ngoyi, Victoria Mxenge and Ruth First. Vessels-management includes crewing/manning, technical management, provisioning, bunkering, operation and the accounting of all aspects relating to these functions. The DAFF retains functional command of the vessels and will reimburse the SA Navy all expenses incurred.

According to an Information Bulletin released by the Navy, there are "minor challenges that need to be addressed once vessels are operational such as how SA Navy personnel will carry out rules of engagement when dealing with fishery infringements," DefenceWeb says.

Read the full article on www.defenceweb.co.za.