Random drug, alcohol tests for boat operators, says Minister Edghill

Random testing of boat operators for alcohol and drug use will be introduced in Guyana as part of new measures to strengthen safety and accountability in the maritime transport sector.

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill made the announcement following a meeting with senior officials of the Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) to address persistent issues related to vessel maintenance, safety inspections, and crew living conditions. Edghill was accompanied at the meeting by Minister within the Ministry, Madanlall Ramraj.

Edghill said the ministry will enforce a “strict no-tolerance policy for mismanagement” of vessels and ensure compliance with maintenance and safety standards.

Other measures include mandatory vessel inspections, routine engine servicing supported by a new checklist, and tighter regulation of operators.

The ministry said the steps are part of a wider effort to improve safety standards and modernise the transport sector.