Maritime Bill sparks debate over blue economy future

Independent senator Dr Crystal Drakes voiced both support and concern over the Sea Industry Bill in the Senate on Wednesday.

She described the bill as “comprehensive” and “wide-ranging”, recognising its potential to shape the future of Barbados’ maritime industry and blue economy sector. At the same time, she raised critical questions about its practical implications and the consultation process.

“I will say that the bill is one comprehensive, extensive in nature, and wide-ranging,” Senator Drakes said, acknowledging a major gap in stakeholder engagement. “Because of its wide-ranging implications, I was still unable to interface with stakeholders who this bill would affect.”

The senator outlined that while the bill is embedded in broader policy frameworks such as the Barbados Blue Economy and Integrated Coastal Zone Management plans, there remains a disconnection between these policies and the experiences of everyday Barbadians.

“When the average Barbadian hears about the blue economy, how are they engaged with it?” she questioned. “How are the fisher folk, many of whom are still trying to get their boats back into the water, being facilitated as part of the Barbados Blue Economy?”

Drakes called for clearer communication on how citizens, especially in coastal communities, would benefit from the investments in the Blue Economy. She stressed the importance of linking economic growth to social and ecological justice. “It brings into question how we are tracking the progress of the Barbados blue economy,” she said, suggesting that the government has yet to establish a clear national metric for measuring its success. “How are we measuring the Barbados blue economy? Is it just by the number of jobs created, or do we also know how these developments impact the health of our coral reefs and mangroves?”

Senator Drakes highlighted the need for rigorous monitoring of the impact on Barbados’ natural resources, which are at the core of the island’s blue economy. She pointed out that while various pieces of legislation address marine conservation, there is insufficient coordination and oversight.

“We have a lot of policies on paper but something is not translating on the ground,” she said.

In addressing the regulatory framework outlined in the bill, Drakes raised concerns about the capacity of small government departments to implement the extensive regulatory requirements.

“Do we have the technical capacity to handle the type of regulation that will be implemented once this bill is passed?” she asked, emphasising the strain that may be placed on already overburdened agencies.

The senator also questioned the potential duplication of efforts among the various agencies involved in the maritime sector.

“How does the port’s ability to designate areas for development align with town planning and the integrated Coastal Zone Management plan?” she asked, urging the government to provide clarity on these points.

One of the most contentious aspects of the debate was the section of the bill dealing with foreign customs and border protection personnel at the port. Drakes expressed discomfort with the proposal, which allows foreign officials to be stationed at Barbados’ ports for customs and immigration inspections.

“What is the arrangement where foreign officials are now managing our ports?” she queried, raising concerns about the potential security risks in light of ongoing issues with gun violence on the island.

While the Leader of Government Business clarified that this arrangement was in line with international best practices, Drakes remained unconvinced.

“If it is a new arrangement, I bring light to it in this debate,” she said, urging further discussion on the matter. (SZB)