It was revealed after the meeting that the Norwegian Honorary Consul, Pornphan Sittichaiviji had raised nine issues of concern for Phuket namely tourist insurance, beach management, illegal tour guides, attracting ‘quality tourists’, Thai culture among international tourists, co-operation between private and public sectors, traffic, pollution and emergency planing.
Gov Chamroen told Ms Sittichaivijit that he he would take care all of the issues she had raised as best as he can, but the safety and security of tourists is his top priority.
“Some issues are the same that the governor’s office are facing and working on such as pollution and emergency planing. We have arranged emergency practice drills in many place and many times,” he said.
“With regards to travel insurance, we will work with the public health dept and Phuket Office of Ministry and Sports on this very soon,” he added.
Gov Chamroen also confirmed that more CCTVs will be installed at all the island’s pier to identify when tourists leave the island via boat.
“Right now most of our piers have a CCTV, but this only records the tourist’s ID as both local and foreign tourists must show their ID to the camera before boarding. This allows us to know who has left the island,” Gov Chamroen said.
Meanwhile, French Honorary Consul Claude de Crissey expressed his concern on the island’s jet-skis and parasails.
“All jet-ski owners have to buy insurance before they can rent out their jet-skis. This insurance covers any expenses that may be incurred should they be involved in an accident. All tourists should ask for proof of this insurance before renting a jet-ski,” said Gov Chamroen.
Vice Governor Chokdee Armornwat added that he is looking into the jet-ski and parasail issue and that the is currently seeing if there is a more suitable place for them on the beaches.
“We will find the safest solution for tourists, and find the most suitable place jet-skis and parasails,” he said.
It was also announced at the meeting that regular meetings between Gov Chamroen and the honorary consuls will now be held every third Thursday of the month at Phuket Provincial Hall at 1:30pm.