The Department of Environment, Fisheries and Agriculture and the Customs and Excise Division of Treasury have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding for joint maritime working, and have decided that the Custom’s patrol vessel Panther is surplus to the requirements of the Isle of Man’s future maritime law enforcement strategy.

Treasury Minister Eddie Teare MHK today announced that the vessel will be donated to the Government of Sierra Leone and will work in conjunction with the neighbouring country of Liberia undertaking fisheries protection and law enforcement duties, this is a multi-national project funded by the World Bank. Speaking today he said

“I am delighted that the World Bank has agreed to fund a major refit of the Panther, to make it suitable for use in tropical conditions, as well as all operating and maintenance costs for the next two years. This funding includes provision for two Isle of Man engineers to accompany the vessel and provide training in routine maintenance. This role will subsequently be taken on by officers from the Royal Navy, who have an important advisory role within Sierra Leone.”

Phil Gawne MHK, Chairman of the Overseas Aid Committee, welcomed the decision by Treasury saying
“Having met twice with Dr Kabia, the Fisheries Minister of Sierra Leone, who visited the Isle of Man in 2011,  I am fully aware of the desperate need the country has for an effective enforcement vessel. Over 100,000 families rely on fishing for both an income, and as their major source of protein, and the activities of illegal industrial trawlers are putting this all at risk.”

“The Isle of Man already has close links with Sierra Leone, one of the poorest countries on earth, and participating in the World Bank project will maximise the benefits that this donation will achieve. Successful secondment of two marine engineers to the project will further build on the links between our countries, and enhance the international reputation we are gaining for good governance of fisheries.”