Navy recruits pass out

Sekondi, Sept. 01 -GNA-Mr. Kwasi Blay, Deputy Western Regional Minister has stressed the need to re-appraise the country's maritime strategy to be able to surmount challenges that would be posed by the oil discovery and globalisation.

He said; "even though sea power, traditionally was to deter potential aggressors, it had become clear that effective sea power demands a broader definition and attention.

"Sea power, must also be responsible for developing peace and not simply deterring conflict and restoring peace."

Mr. Blay said these when he addressed the passing-out parade of 112 naval recruits at the Western Naval Command in Sekondi on Friday. The six-month standard military and basic naval training involved weapon handling, drill, academic, and other related programmes. Mr. Blay said discipline and hard work continued to be the bedrock of the Ghana armed Forces and advised the recruits to improve, or at least maintain the level of discipline throughout their career. He told the recruits that their effectiveness must reflect in every facet of national endeavour and development, including the Navy's posture at sea and defence of the country's maritime assets. Mr. Blay noted that because the duties and operations of the Navy were mostly performed at sea and out of sight of the public, many tend not to appreciate its usefulness and positive contributions towards national aspirations and development.

He said it had been performing its duties very effectively, including patrolling the country's territorial waters, checking pollution and support to the Department of Fisheries to enhance it operations in coastal waters and on the Volta lake. Mr. Blay stressed the need for security and stability without which, he said, no meaningful economic, social and political development could be achieved.

He advised the recruits to adopt the right attitude towards their chosen career since their progress would be based on their determination and attitudes and said the Navy, like other arms of the Armed Forces is a noble institution whose image must be protected at all times. Ordinary Seaman James Pious Abaidoo was adjudged best all-round recruit, while Ordinary Seaman Frank Baffoe-Boateng and Ordinary Seaman Patrick Dakwa were best in academics and drill respectively. Mr. Blay presented them with awards and commended the recruits for their smart turnout.