The Director of Marine Viliami Tu'ipulotu verified that he signed a Seaworthy Certificate for the MV Pulupaki on January 6, 2010, even though he knew it was unseaworthy and it has extensive rust and corrosion.

On January 28 Viliami told the Commission of Inquiry into the sinking of the Ashika that the MV Pulupaki was in an advanced level of rust and corrosion on the floor and throughout the vessel.

The counsel Varitimos asked the witness if he knew what had happened to the Pulupaki during the past 24 hours, and if he had spoken to the owners.

Viliami responded that the Pulupaki had arrived in Ha'apai that morning, January 28 and it was travelling across the Ha'apai group of islands. He said he spoke to 'Uliti Uata who told him that the vessel was arriving in Ha'apai that morning.

"Did you tell him what was going to happen to the vessel?" said Varitimos.

Viliami said, "yes" and he also told 'Uliti Uata that the vessel was not allowed to sail and take passengers.

"Have you spoken to the Minister of Transport about the vessel?" said counsel Varitimos.

No, said Viliami.

The Director's hearing was adjourned and directed to produce further documents to the inquiry relating to the Pulupaki.

It has been confirmed in earlier evidence that the Port Master Mafi had indicated that he would not allow the Pulupaki back to Nuku'alofa.