Mr. Jerome Padmore has been appointed Chief Marine Accident and Safety Officer, within the Premier’s Office, the ministry responsible for Maritime and Shipping Administration.

Mr. Padmore has served for 17 years in law enforcement and has experience in marine safety and accident investigation. He also served for more than three years in the Marine Unit, as Acting Inspector.

Mr. Padmore’s experience includes managing and investigating a wide range of marine incidents involving recreational and commercial vessels. His knowledge of maritime laws, along with hands-on engineering experience with vessels over fifty feet, is expected to promote the safety of the Virgin Islands’ maritime operations.

Mr. Padmore said he was honoured to serve as the Chief Marine Accident and Safety Officer for the Government of the Virgin Islands.

He said, “I am committed to conducting thorough, non-blame investigations to uncover the root causes of marine accidents. My aim is to foster a culture of safety, collaborate with stakeholders, and continuously improve maritime safety within the Virgin Islands.”

In his new role, Mr. Padmore will oversee marine accident investigations and safety procedures, working closely with marine surveyors to ensure thorough investigations that contribute to improved safety protocols and risk mitigation. He will also continue to lead initiatives to foster collaboration and safety awareness within the maritime community.

Permanent Secretary in the Premier’s Office, Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt Igwe welcomed Mr. Padmore to the team, and stated that his appointment makes it possible for the Territory to close a long-standing corrective action as it relates to maritime compliance under the III Code requirements.

Mrs. Stoutt Igwe said, “Over the next few weeks, Mr. Padmore will be engaging various stakeholders in the marine industry as he seeks to fulfill his role as outlined in the Merchant Shipping (Accident Reporting and Investigation) Regulations, 2020.”

The Permanent Secretary also noted that ahead of Mr. Padmore’s education campaign, captains and operators are reminded that they are required by law to report all accidents. She is also appealing to members of the public of the need to report all marine casualties and accidents, including minor incidents. Further information will be forthcoming to advise the public where complaints can be made with the required documentation.

Mr. Padmore holds various certifications in Marine Safety Accident Investigation from Cranfield University in the United Kingdom, other related certifications from the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College and other institutions which have equipped him with the expertise to conduct in-depth safety investigations and provide detailed, analytical reports. He is currently pursuing post-grad certification in Accident Investigation at Cranfield University.

The Government of the Virgin Islands is committed to the safety and security of its maritime activities, and Mr. Padmore’s appointment is a significant step toward enhancing safety standards across the Territory’s marine sector.

The Government of the Virgin Islands remains dedicated to ensuring the safety, security, and sustainable development of the Territory’s maritime industry through effective leadership, strategic planning, and collaboration with key stakeholders.