Dear Editor, I am shocked by the continued dangerous operations of Taio Shipping.

This company has a long history of hazardous trading, and the latest incident involving a 22-year-old crew member falling overboard should signal the end of their operations.

Let’s recall some of the past incidents:

1. Taio Ship hits reef

2. Taio Ship hits reef

3. Taio Ship hits reef

4. Seven-year-old Lapana Tupou falls overboard from Taio Ship

5. Taio Ship hits reef

6. Taio Ship catches fire

7. 22-year-old falls overboard from Taio Ship

In contrast, the other shipping company, MV Taunga Nui, has had no reef strikes and no one falling overboard.

When will this nonsense stop?

While I wholeheartedly support local businesses, I draw the line at dangerous and reckless trading. The government must step in to stop these “pirates”. However, I fear the Ministry of Transport will merely slap their wrists and reissue their shipping licence, allowing this dangerous pattern to continue. 

It will be a case of: Play. Rewind. Eject. Reset … Repeat! Te iu!

Akara Etu/Stargazer 

(Name and address supplied)

Editor’s note – Taio Shipping has been offered a right of response to this letter.