The SVG Coast Guard has extended its training to the northern end of the country by conducting its first Basic Seamanship and Safety Training course which has benefitted 23 members of the Owia Community.{{more}}

This course ran from August 3rd, 2009, to August 7th, 2009, at the Owia Fishing Complex.

Rosmond Layne-Lorraine, Course Co-ordinator, addressing the graduates on Friday, August 7th, told the participants that they are living in a world where training is becoming scarce and whatever training is available should be grasped with both hands. She commended the Coast Guard for facilitating such a training programme, especially one which provides the participants with some basic seamanship knowledge and maritime safety tips.

Lieutenant Deon Henry, Coast Guard training officer urged the participants to practice what they had learnt during the week by acting and thinking safety when engaged in all maritime related activities. He also challenged the participants to share their knowledge and skills with relatives and friends. He noted that by sharing basic safety information, the life of a loved one may be saved.

The Coast Guard has been conducting training in aspects of seamanship and safety over the years, but this is the first time the Coast Guard has conducted such a training programme north of the dry river.

The students were lectured on SVG Coast Guard history, seamanship, navigation, knots and splices, navigation instruments, compasses, boat handling, first aid and safety at sea.

Five female and eighteen males participated in the Basic seamanship and safety training course.

SVG Coast Guard Youth Development Summer Programme, which is into its 16th year, is presently ongoing at the Coast Guard Base. The closing ceremony will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2009.