Ferry service no longer satisfactory

Thus, first, it was the episode, to the chagrin of the Tobago business community in particular, of a ferry having been forced to return to Port-of- Spain with its full cargo after being unable to berth on its arrival in Scarborough. This was said to have been due to a “mixup” in communication which had caused much inconvenience and monetary loss.

This was followed, not long after, by another event — one of the two fast ferries being taken out of service for a relatively long period, due to officially-acknowledged engine failure. Yet another case of great inconvenience to the public.

In fact, at the time of writing, I am not sure whether both fast passenger ferries are operating in tandem.

I have been made to understand that this latter inconvenience was experienced especially by passengers who had been wishing to travel accompanied by their cars.

However, I have also been made to understand that at this time (and no doubt a situation which is a permanent feature) the two cargo ferries are wont to be travelling with far less than half loads.

In this regard, therefore, I am wondering whether the authorities, as a means of providing greater leeway for cars, have considered shifting vans and small trucks, in particular, from the fast passenger ferries to the faster of the two cargo ferries? After all, in most cases these vans are in effect small cargo trucks and not passenger vehicles.

This may be gleaned from the “T” notation on their number plates.

In addition, they are, of course, already the receivers of benefit by way of subsidised diesel fuel.

Errol OC Cupid Trincity, Tacarigua