–adopts appropriate measures to keep vessels in ship shape

THE Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) is committed to the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) energy efficiency standard relative to vessels, and has accordingly adopted the appropriate measures to keep vessels in an efficient state.

Mechanical Engineer Anil James told this publication that motor launch (ML) ‘Alan Young’ is in dry dock at the Guyana National Industrial Corporation (GNIC), sitting on blocks whilst repairs are being done.

He noted that the GNIC has begun clearing slush from the ML ‘Alan Young’. Thereafter, it would undergo repairs to its hull and the main deck on underwater units.

James said that MARAD acquired the vessel several years ago, and it was used to guide ships into Port Georgetown as a launch vessel. He opined that it is time repairs be done to the Alan Young if it is to continue operating at optimum use.

He pointed out that MARAD’s Mechanical Engineering Department, which he heads, is tasked with ensuring all of MARAD’s vessels are seaworthy, and that department’s primary function is to conserve on resources and at the same time keep the vessel in an operable state at minimal cost.

James noted that the department have prepared a docking list on which an estimate is done in detail to ensure that vessels ML Kakabelly, ML Alan Young and ML Thompson are operating efficiently and are in good working condition at all times.

He disclosed that, given the framework of the department’s operations and the workload it has to carry, the intention is geared towards ensuring that MARAD’s vessels are in proper working condition; and when it is time for any of MARAD’s vessels to dock for repairs, this is done in a timely manner.

(By Michel Outridge)