marine offences.

But Youth and Sport Minister the Hon. Pamela Gordon has stressed that the aim of the Marine Board Amendment Act 1993 is not to ostracise the pilots.

Sen. Gordon, the transport spokesman in the Senate, said the Act would ensure that Government ferries would now adhere to weight restrictions and be open to public complaint.

Sen. Ira Philip (PLP) said that on the surface there seems to be nothing contentious about this act but what has brought this about? Have there been complaints? Is it an attempt to clamp down on certain Government pilots? Does it involve Government pilots who bring in ocean going ships?'' Praising the act, Independent Sen. Norma Astwood said: "Hopefully Government will continue to broaden experience and exposure of pilots.'' Sen. Gordon said: "This is not a clampdown on certain pilots. In actual fact it is to ensure that the Government is seen to be fair across the board.

"It means Goverment will be accountable for its action it is not an attempt to ostracise any particular employee. It just shows we are being fair.'' The bill was passed.