I refer to the letter published in these columns on December 2, from a reader expressing concern about delays caused by police checks on ferries operating from Lamma to Central.
Recently, as a result of complaints against overloading and at the request of the Transport Department, police launches have increased checks against ferry services operating from Lamma.
This enforcement action has led to the issue of two summonses to one operator for failing to have on board sufficient life-saving and fire-fighting appliances, whilst another ferry operator has been summonsed for failing to have a qualified engineer on his vessel. So far, police have not encountered any overloaded ferries.
Whilst any inconvenience caused to commuters is regretted, these checks are entirely necessary and in the interests of public safety.
Should your reader require any further information, she is most welcome to contact Alasdair Watson, Divisional Commander, Marine Police South Division on 2555 4401.
H.M. BLUD Chief Superintendent Police Public Relations Branch for Commissioner of Police