With his angry statement, the Dodecanese PASOK Member of Parliament Giorgos Nikitiadis and the former Deputy Minister call for the resignation of the Minister of Shipping and Island Policy, Mr. Christos Stylianides, on the occasion of the new episode regarding the mismanagement of the ship “SAOSNISOS” on Tuesday, November 19. The new incident on the route Kalymnos-Leros-Lipsoi-Patmos-Arkioi-Farmakonisi-Agathonisi-Samos comes as a seal of the dubious policies of the ND which, instead of protecting the interests of the islanders, protects and ignores the major interests on the. citizens.
Mr Nikitiadis specifically said:
“By God’s mercy, abandoned in the middle of the ocean, and without any knowledge of how they will arrive and where they will be accommodated, the 22 passengers of the ship “SAOSNISOS” and their crew, as the boat was left. Without crew. Yes the incompetence of the Government and the Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy is now tragically dangerous.
The mismanagement of the ship “SAOSNISSOS” between Leros and Leipsic on Tuesday, November 19, puts the 22 passengers and its crew at risk. The failure of the same ship in the middle of the sea last week and the problem with its catapult, as well as the fact that this vessel replaced the “STAVROS” which also suffered damage to its rudder during the first execution of the route same, to prove the indifference, insensitivity and wrong policies of the Government.
With a redundant and now questionable study, the Ministry of Shipping and Insligh Policy initially left ANE Kalymnos out of the tender, awarding the route by direct assignment to a private shipping company at an additional cost of €8,000 per route, and not to ANE Kalymnos which was already operating at minimal cost.
The ship “STAVROS” was first put on the line, which lost its director on its first passage and has since been buried in Piraeus. Then the private shipping company sent the “SAOSNISOS” on the specific route, which in the first route had a problem with the catapult and at the same time stayed for two hours unruly in the Mediterranean and today it is unruly again outside of Lipsi, requesting assistance from the Kalymnos Port Authority.
What are the safety criteria with which this shipping company was selected?
Were all the necessary checks carried out on the two boats “STAVROS” and “SAOSNISOS” which attempted to run the route Kalymnos-Leros-Lipsi-Patmos-Arkioi-Farmakonisi-Agathonisi-Samos, but in the end failed to deliver passengers and crew send in danger?
Why was the already running route not awarded at a lower cost to ANE Kalymnos, as was done last year and the Ministry decided to entrust the route to another company?
How long do the islanders have to tolerate the incompetence of the Ministry’s leadership? Resigning Mr. Stylianides is the least that can be done.”
How can policymakers improve maritime safety in island communities like those in the Dodecanese?
Title: Navigating Turbulent Waters: An Interview with Georgette Mallios, Maritime Policy Expert
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, everyone. Today, we have a compelling discussion lined up regarding the recent maritime crises within the Dodecanese, particularly focusing on the ship “SAOSNISOS.” Joining us is Georgette Mallios, a respected expert in maritime policy and safety. Georgette, thank you for being here.
Georgette Mallios: Thank you for having me. It’s a crucial time to address these issues, and I appreciate the opportunity.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. The incident involving the “SAOSNISOS” ship has raised significant safety concerns. Can you summarize the main issues that have emerged from this incident?
Mallios: Certainly. The most alarming aspect is the apparent mismanagement of the vessel, particularly during its route from Kalymnos to Samos. On November 19, the ship was reportedly left abandoned in the middle of the ocean, with passengers and crew in a precarious situation. This follows a series of failures related to the “SAOSNISOS” and its predecessor, “STAVROS,” which also encountered technical difficulties. The repeated failures highlight a systemic issue regarding vessel management and government oversight.
Editor: Georgios Nikitiadis, the PASOK MP, has called for the resignation of Minister Christos Stylianides. How justified are these calls for accountability from political figures?
Mallios: There is definitely a growing sentiment that accountability is necessary. When public safety is compromised, especially in an area heavily reliant on maritime transport, it raises questions about the competence of those in charge. Nikitiadis’s fierce stance reflects the concerns of both the islanders and the general public who feel abandoned by their government. It’s incumbent upon political leaders to not only respond to crises but to prevent them.
Editor: The situation seems to indicate broader implications for maritime safety in island communities. What do you believe are the critical changes needed to improve maritime operations in these regions?
Mallios: There are several layers to consider. Firstly, we need an overhaul of the inspection and certification process for vessels serving island routes. These ships must meet stringent safety standards. Secondly, better crisis management protocols need to be in place to ensure that passengers are safe and informed, especially in emergencies. the government needs to engage more with local communities to understand their needs and to prioritize the sustainability of maritime services that are so integral to island life.
Editor: It sounds like a multifaceted approach is required. How can stakeholders, including the government and maritime operators, work together to achieve these improvements?
Mallios: Collaboration is key. The government must work alongside maritime operators to establish a clear framework that prioritizes safety and reliability. Regular communication with island communities can help in making informed decisions that reflect the actual needs of residents. Furthermore, investment in training for crew and staff can enhance the readiness of operators to handle emergencies effectively.
Editor: As we wrap up, what’s your message to the policymakers regarding this situation?
Mallios: My message is clear: prioritize human safety and the well-being of island communities. The maritime sector is not just about transportation; it’s about connecting lives, families, and economies. We cannot afford to treat these incidents as isolated cases. There’s a pressing need for proactive measures that will prevent future crises. Listening to the voices of those affected by these mismanagement issues can lead to positive change.
Editor: Thank you, Georgette, for your insights into this critical issue. It’s evident that the maritime industry faces challenges that require urgent attention. Your expertise will undoubtedly illuminate the path forward for affected communities and stakeholders.
Mallios: Thank you for the platform. It’s vital that we continue these discussions for better maritime safety and policy reform.
Editor: And thank you to our readers for joining us today. We hope this discussion sheds light on the pressing maritime issues affecting the Dodecanese islands. Until next time, stay informed and engaged.