Much focus will be placed on matters relating to security and safety in the Caribbean’s aviation sector as intense discussions are expected to be held during the next three days at the 17th Caribbean Aviation Safety and Security Oversight System’s (CASSOS) Board of Directors’ Meeting.
This Meeting commenced this morning at the Marriott Hotel in Kingston, Georgetown.
Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure Annette Ferguson told the gathering that the combined approach of the Region through CASSOS would allow member states like Guyana to have an opportunity in accessing essential technical expertise to keep the aviation sector safe and secure.
“I am aware of some of the challenges we face in the safety and security of aviation such as our level of ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organisation) compliance…our situation with the FAA International Aviation safety assessment, our need for adequate staffing, duly trained and certified to boost our safety oversight… but I’m confident that we will repair and develop our system,” Minister Ferguson posited.
She noted that Guyana is presently setting the stage to have a ‘robust aviation system that plays a critical role in the national sustainable development’.
According to the Government Information Agency (GINA) Chairman of CASSOS, Nari Williams-Singh pointed out that an intensive agenda will ensue as the Board seeks to collaborate and harmonise activities for the good of the region’s aviation sector.
He added that whilst the areas of safety and security are of paramount importance, other areas will be addressed.
“The growing issue of environmental protection has not gone unnoticed as a number of member states delivered action plans on fulfilling the mandate in this area… Our discussions will be intense but focused as we seek to ensure that our states are in compliance with ICAO standards and recommended practices,” Williams-Singh outlined.
Additionally Lt Col (rtd) Lawrence London, Chairman of Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) Board indicated that the new board will work to ensure recommendations and decisions that emanate are enacted expeditiously.
“There is much work to be done. You have the experience, capacity and knowledge to accomplish goals of this organisation… the new board of the GCAA stands ready to support the efforts of CASSOS wherever, and whenever possible,” London stated.
Meanwhile, GCAA Director General (ag) Chaitrani Heeralall indicated that the three days of discussions come at a critical time where the authority is on the launch pad to seriously develop the local aviation sector to become one of the drivers of national sustainable development.
