Richard Persad, President of the T&T Jet Ski Racing Federation, says yesterday’s incident at Pigeon Point is “totally unacceptable” and highlights ongoing safety concerns.
He told 103.1FM News today, that while there are currently no specific laws governing jet skis T&T, it falls under existing general maritime regulations.
He adds that at present, no licence is required to operate the vessels, although a process does exist for obtaining an operator’s licence.
Mr Persad is calling for stricter enforcement of bathing zones and greater accountability for rental companies, especially those allowing untrained individuals to operate jet skis.
He says the Maritime Division, under the Transport Ministry, is working to introduce new measures, including a national registry for jet skis.
Currently, there is a draft policy from the Transport Ministry for the regulation and licensing of small boats, including pleasure craft, fishing vessels and personal watercraft (jet-skis).
