(UTULEI: Thursday, July 22, 2010) –Governor Togiola Tulafono on Thursday, July 22, 2010 announced the U.S. Coast Guard has issued the MV Sili a 5-year Certificate of Inspection (COI) that now permits the government vessel to commence regular scheduled service for Manu’a starting tomorrow morning, Friday, July 23, 2010. 

Governor Togiola expressed his delight that the MV Sili has received certification of operation approval and is fit for scheduled passenger service. 

“This is wonderful news for all of American Samoa as it now ensures that we have reliable ocean transportation service for Manu’a and Swains Island,” said Governor Togiola. “I am very happy that we now have the five-year COI and that the U.S. Coast Guard has deemed that all equipment is in satisfactory condition. We will continue working with the Coast Guard in our upgrades to improve the ship in making it safe.”

Governor Togiola also announced MV Sili will be sailing for Ofu on Friday, July 23, 2010 at 6:00am and overnight in Faleasao, Ta’u. 

On Saturday, July 24, 2010 it will depart Faleasao for Swains Island at 5:00pm. After unloading cargo in Swains on Sunday morning, the MV Sili will return to Manu’a to pick up passengers and cargo before returning to Tutuila on Monday, July 26, 2010. 

Governor Togiola expressed his sincere gratitude to the U.S. Coast Guard for the approval of MV Sili to continue its inter-island operations. 

“With big news, comes a big thank you to Lieutenant Trevor Parra, the new supervisor of the U.S. Coast Guard American Samoa Marine Safety Detachment Unit, for his kind assistance, and we can’t forget the great job that was started by his predecessor, Lieutenant Ted Harre, who showed his love and care for the people of American Samoa, especially the people of Manu’a, in assisting us with the work on the MV Sili to ensure that it was in accordance with applicable regulations and standards,” said Governor Togiola. “Also, special thanks go to Port Administration Director Matagi Ray Mailo McMoore and his hardworking his staff, and to the captain and crew of the MV Sili for all playing a big part in making our certification possible.” 

---americansamoa.gov---