Comfort and safety of
passengers must come first

THE EDITOR: Out of a sense of genuine concern, I address the media on the matter of the Tobago Ferry and in particular, the recently announced plans for the purchase of a “fast ferry” which will service the Tobago/Trinidad sea route.

It has come to my knowledge, that the ferry, which the state proposes to purchase, will not be furnished with cabins.

If this is so, I am submitting, that it would be a great error in judgment, for reasons of sensitivity and a responsible approach to satisfying the needs of the travelling public.

The trip to be made to and from Tobago has to be made through the Bocas, which we know has a very serious effect on the length of time a boat takes to make the crossing. One of the most important features of transport is accommodation, which must be designed for the comfort and safety of the commuters or travellers.

If one should use the present experience, one would notice that the first thing most passengers do, is seek some spot on the floor of the particular deck where they would lie down on blankets or sheets or pieces of card board. This is a definite sign that better accommodation is needed. They often jostle for the better spots.

It is with this in mind that I submit further, that passengers should not be thrown in with cargo and motor vehicles as they travel to and from Tobago. If, perforce this becomes necessary, passengers should not have to jostle with motor vehicles as they exit or enter the Ferry.

I am in full agreement with the purchasing of a new ferry, but I am seeking to urge those in authority to pay special attention to the comfort and safety of passengers and even so, give the travelling public a reasonable choice by providing both cabin and seating facilities.

MILTON “WIRE” AUSTIN HBM
Public Relations Officer
Pan Trinbago