No difference with security

The people of Tobago depend heavily on the inter-island service, so it’s really Tobagonians who are being punished.

However, it is my view (and that of many other ferry users) that the presence of security officers makes little difference in the behaviour of rowdy and destructive passengers other than adhering to the no-smoking zones.

In the presence of a full security shift, passengers often play loud music and put up their feet on the chairs and tables while the officers pretend not to notice.

A fellow passenger had better not try to correct them or ask them to lower their music, lest he/she be told where to get off.

There are signs indicating that radios should not be played loudly yet one often has to endure another passenger’s noise throughout the trip.

People often use obscene language and are raucous and disruptive to other passengers in the presence of the security officers who look at you as though to say, “Not me, I’m not getting involved.” I applaud the captains who decide to sail without the officers, because I’m sure they know about the misbehaviour which occurs in the presence of officers.

Since the sailings can continue without the security officers who see it fit to “work to rule,” maybe not as many of them are needed now.

CAROLYN CORRIAN Carnbee