Sinanan: Port Authority to look at new vessels

Noting criticisms of how government has handled the Galicia issue, Sinanan said the vessel arrived in 2014 under the then People’s Partnership (PP) government.

“The Super Fast not only a question of money. The challenge with the Super Fast is infrastructure,” he explained. Stating the Galicia has been berthed alongside the Hyatt Regency Hotel, for the last three years, Sinanan said the PP failed to build proper berthing facilities for the vessel during its time in office.

“I have a letter from the Hyatt now claiming damages,” he revealed. The minister also said trucks had transport cargo from one end of the port to the Hyatt to load on the Galicia. In addition, he said a barge and tug also had to be rented at a daily cost of US$1,500, to load cargo on to the Galicia. He claimed a study showed the Galicia failed five out of seven requirements, yet it was still acquired.

Indicating the Galicia was only supposed to operate for six months but the lease was extended repeatedly under the PP, Sinanan said, “All of these are questions which somebody has to answer.” Reiterating that the Galicia will continue to operate on the domestic sea bridge until April 21, Sinanan said it was unfortunate that the Tobago Chamber of Commerce was rejecting all options being advanced to fill the gap when the Galicia departs, “ without putting a suggestion on the table.”