Brain drain not affecting Navy

2008-12-02 21:01

Pretoria - Despite the brain drain and increases in the fuel price, the South African Navy was able to perform its mandate, it said on Tuesday.

"Fortunately, the navy is able to execute its tasks," said Sagaren Pillay, director of maritime plans.

He was speaking at a briefing in Pretoria on the on the state of navy's combat readiness.

On the issue of skills retention, for divers specifically, the navy said it was reviewing the remuneration packages for divers, while for submariner retention it was increasing on-the-job training.

On piracy around the coastal areas on the continent, defence spokesperson Sam Mkhwanazi said discussions at "a presidential level" were being held, but that currently South Africa had not been asked to assist.

Other than the problem of retaining skilled staff, some of the problems the navy faced included the maintenance and repair of its facilities.

"We are aware of that and we're doing all we can," said Pillay.

Chief of naval staff Mosoeu Magalepa said that during the 2010 World Cup tournament the navy would assist in securing South Africa's coastline.

This would be a joint operation with other South African security forces, said Magalepa.

- SAPA