Just to clear up any confusion on the diving here on Diego Garcia. I've been on island since 2004 and have been diving since the Brits opened it back up in Feb of 2009. I have dove inside the lagoon and on the oceanside, whic is fantastic. I'm a civilian and an instructor so I was thirlled when it first opened up. Things changed when the old Brit rep left and the new one came in though. The Navy command created a regional instruction which was fine but only applies to some of the people here, not all. the Brits dive when ever they feel like it, their island so I guess they get that priviledge. I've gotten in good with most of them and having certified more than a few of them get invited on their dives. That includes plenty of boat dives, night dives, and deep dives. Not to mention the dives that several of us do with the lead researcher when he comes out.
The main problem is the lack of understanding between the different elements on the island and the fact that there is a diving program isn't broadcast or even spoke of unless you are seen getting in or out of the water. There is a big liability fear on the island even with a recompression chamber available, of course no one talks about the operational chamber. It is unfortunate that it is the way it is and there are folks trying to change it for the better and get people off their collective rear-ends and either support a program or keep their noses out of it.
Either way the diving here has been very good given the conditions and lack of press.
