GEORGETOWN, Guyana--Matters pertaining to security and safety in the aviation sector for the Caribbean are being discussed with the aim of harmonisation, as the Caribbean Aviation Safety and Security Oversight System’s (CASSOS’s) Board of Directors holds its 17th Meeting, from February 29 through March 2.
CASSOS is the region’s aviation oversight organisation. It is aimed at facilitating the growth and development of aviation through training, resource sharing and harmonisation of policies and procedures, among other areas.
The unified approach of the region, through CASSOS, has provided member states with an avenue to access key technical expertise to keep the sector safe and secure, Guyana’s Minister in the Ministry of Public Infrastructure Annette Ferguson said.
“I am aware of some of the challenges we face in the safety and security of aviation such as our level of [International Civil Aviation Organization – Ed.] ICAO 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,” she said.
Ferguson added that Guyana was setting the stage to have a robust aviation system that played a vital role in national sustainable development.
The Minister stated that significant strides had been made over the years towards regional aviation security, backed by collaboration and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Trinidad and Tobago Civil Aviation Authority.
CASSOS Chairman Nari Williams-Singh indicated that an intensive agenda would ensue as the Board sought to collaborate and harmonise activities for the good of the region’s aviation sector. He added that while the areas of safety and security were of paramount importance, other areas would 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 said.
Chairman of Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) Board Retired Lt. Colonel Lawrence London said the new Board would work to ensure recommendations and decisions were 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,” he said. ~ Caribbean360
