A shipping agent is calling for the quick removal of the fishing vessel that is lying on its side on Apia Beach claiming it is an eyesore and could become an environmental disaster.

The fishing ship is owned by a local company, Apia Deep Sea Fishing (A.D.S.F.). The ship was moored at the Matautu Wharf when strong currents carried the ship to the beach while crew members were inside. The ropes holding the ship steady broke as a result of the currents.

In an interview with the Samoa Observer, the Chief Executive Officer for the Samoa Global Shipping Services agent, Mua'ausa Fiona Talouli who is manning the schedules of cruise ships expressed concerns over the stranded ship.

She said it is an eyesore and can continue to be so for tourists and especially while Samoa prepares for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in October.

"The company should be fined if there is any oil leak from the boat damaging the oceans. How long will this boat will be lying there? It really is an eyesore on this side especially for the incoming tourists and especially since Samoa is preparing for the CHOGM," she said.

"That's the only concern because it's not something nice to look at for a long time so it should be removed any time soon."

Meanwhile, the Minister of Works, Transport and Infrastructure, Olo Fiti Vaai said the Ministry has been monitoring the boat and they are currently awaiting a report from the insurance company working with the A.D.S.F on the state of the boat until they move on to the next step.

The Minister was queried on the state of the boat and whether there were any reports on leaking oil or fines that the company could face.

"We're waiting for the insurance company to do what they have to do and then we will see from there what the next step will be but we are monitoring the boat at the moment," he said.

Asked when the insurance company will commence their inspection, Olo said he does not know.

The owners of the company have refused to offer any comments.