1. Pilotage and Towage are two important maritime services that are significant to Jamaica. Pilotage refers to the service of guiding ships through narrow or dangerous waterways, such as ports or channels. Towage refers to the service of towing ships or other vessels. These services are important to Jamaica because the country is an island nation that relies heavily on maritime trade.
2. Yes, there is a difference between towage and salvage. Towage refers to the service of towing a ship or other vessel from one location to another. Salvage, on the other hand, refers to the service of rescuing a ship or other vessel that is in distress or in danger of sinking. Salvage may involve repairing the vessel, removing cargo, or other services designed to prevent the total loss of the vessel.
3. The Jamaica Defence Force Coast Guard is governed by the Jamaica Defence Force Act, which outlines the structure, functions, and responsibilities of the JDF.
4. Yes, there are practice directions in place that guide the JDF Coast Guard in executing their duties. These practice directions are designed to ensure that the JDF operates within the law and in a manner that is consistent with international maritime standards.
5. The Government of Jamaica has put in place several mechanisms to protect the marine environment, including the Marine Pollution Control Act, which regulates the discharge of pollutants into Jamaican waters, and the Protected Areas Act, which establishes protected areas to conserve marine ecosystems and biodiversity.
6. It is unlikely that M/V Peace would be liable to pay damages to the entire Jamaican population. Liability for damages would depend on the specific circumstances of the case, and would likely be limited to those who were directly affected by the incident.