Press release from the Agency for Public Information – API
The raising of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Coast Guard’s (SVGCG) emblem to boost security in and around the Grenadine island of Bequia has marked the resumption of its maritime operations on the Island.
Commissioner of Police Colin John, in his remarks at a brief ceremony held on December 29, 2022, noted that the Coast Guard plays a vital role in ensuring a secured St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), as well as securing visitors to our beautiful Islands and cays.
Accordingly, John noted that apart from protection and safety of residents, the Coast Guard also provides evacuation services in emergency cases, and medical departures from the Grenadines.
Commissioner John called on the Bequia community to support to the new sub-based services on the island.
The Deputy Director of Grenadines Affairs, Carlos Williams, took the opportunity to welcome back the Coast Guard service to Bequia.
Williams said the return of the Coast Guard evidently signals the Government’s commitment to be tough on crime, be it on land or at sea.
Lieutenant Commander at the SVGCG, Ralphie Ragguette, said the SVG-Coast Guard last operated out of Bequia in 2013, but noted that the service came to a halt due to many challenges. The Lieutenant Commander said residency on Bequia will help the Coast Guard respond much faster to calls for assistance.
In addition to the new Bequia base, the SVG-Coast Guard operates from the Southern Grenadine island of Canouan and at its headquarters in Calliaqua on mainland St. Vincent.
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Feature photo credits: The photo on the left is credited to the API, and the photo on the right is credited to Demion McTair.
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