Sahadeo: Port needs to contain cost

Speaking to Sunday Newsday about the most pressing issues facing the port, Sahadeo said these include “the high cost structure of the Port Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (PATT) which require a change in the current work practice, restructuring of the organisation and the introduction of KPIs (key performance indicators).” “This will result in substantial reduction in payroll and operating costs,” she said.

“In addition certain capital expenditure is critical for handling of containerized cargo as this will result in improved productivity and place the PATT in a more competitive position regionally. The KPI re productivity is moves per hour with certain ports in the region as high as 40 moves per hour versus PATT at 25 at best.” Referring to the provision of the ferry service between Trinidad and Tobago, she said, “The transition from the management of the vessels from Bay Ferries to local management resulted in immediate savings in cost and foreign exchange. It also provided key job opportunities for citizens.” She said, however, given the inter-island service is essential to citizens, much effort was placed on proper recruitment and training to provide a timely and efficient service.

This was the mandate of interim provider Magellan Maritime Services and senior management was to ensure the PATT had improved the service by March.