SPC welcomes Pacific regions search and rescue authorities to deliberate on national SAR operations

Auckland, New Zealand – Over 100 participants from 17 Pacific Island countries and territories, including officials responsible for search and rescue (SAR) activities will convene in Auckland next week (22–26 May) for the Seventh Pacific Regional Search and Rescue workshop.

The objective of the workshop is to advocate ratification and appropriate implementation of the International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue, 1979 (SAR 1979), and will provide an opportunity for SAR leaders and practitioners from across the Pacific Islands region, and interested government and non-governmental organisations to build relationships, share best practices, enhance understanding of regional SAR issues and new SAR technologies, and promote cooperative approaches which is clearly emphasised in the revised Convention.

The theme of this year’s workshop is SAR governance, coordination, response and prevention, which supports the vision of the Pacific Search and Rescue Steering Committee Strategic Plan 2017–2021.

A highlight on Wednesday (24 May) will be SAR demonstration exercises at the Mechanic’s Bay, Auckland, New Zealand.

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