Possible Sanctions for Carnival Cruise Lines

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The Department of Public Prosecutions is looking into sanctions, against Carnival Cruise Lines following allegations the cruiseliner illegally dumped sewage and other waste in Bahamian waters.

Transport Minister Jobeth Coleby-Davis confirming as much saying this incident will set a precedent.

Berthony Mcdermott tells us more.  

Sanctions could be on the way for Carnival Cruise Lines, according to Transport Minister Jobeth Coleby-Davis.

Her comments come days after Environmentalist Sam Duncombe called for the government’s investigation into Carnival’s alleged dumping of sewage and waste in Bahamian waters to be published. 

While she didn’t say if details of that probe will be published, she revealed that it’s now on to The Department of Public Prosecutions.

In 2019, a U.S court-mandated report discovered that carnival ships dumped hundreds of thousands of gallons of treated sewage and more than 8,000 gallons of food waste in Bahamian waters in 2017.

The court found that Carnival violated the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from ships which speaks to how food waste and sewage should be disposed of.

While in opposition, Prime Minister Philip Davis was a vocal proponent of the investigation and urged the government to assess the damage done and remedy potential damage at Carnival’s cost.  

Coleby Davis added that the details of the reports weren’t surprising to her, but what’s important is the right reaction.

Coleby-Davis said this investigation will set precedence and will cause vessels entering Bahamian waters to be more respectful of the environment.