Opposition concerns are mounting over Tobago’s cargo supply, more than 24 hours after reports warned of possible food price increases linked to ongoing ferry challenges.
Opposition Leader Penelope Beckles Robinson has criticized Chief Secretary Farley Augustine and Works Minister Jearlean John, with calls for urgent action following issues involving the MV Blue Wave Harmony.
Businesses in Tobago are already reporting difficulty sourcing basic items and mounting losses.
The Opposition Leader is urging the Prime Minister to intervene and for Government to outline a clear plan to stabilise cargo operations.
Meanwhile, the Chief Secretary says that the anxiety felt by Tobagonians over understandable.
Farley Augustine said shortages of food, building materials and other items in Tobago have been caused by the delay in the commercial operationalisation of the Blue Wave Harmony.
” I ask for patience because the Blue Wave Harmony came and there were accidents and incidents here in Tobago with the ramp, an accident at the jetty with the side of the Blue Wave Harmony,” he said.
“Rightfully, Tobago, your patience is running out and that is understandable. That is understandable because people’s patience and anxieties are being worked up,” Mr Augustine added.
The Chief Secretary said compensation is being considered for businesses affected and he has asked the Division of Finance to do some research to determine the economic impact on business.
“As to avoid speculation, and people just calling figures out, we need to know the true cost. That will assist the Tobago House of Assembly in seeing what measures it needs to put in place to eusure that we keep our businesses afloat,” Mr Augustine said.
The central government says the Blue Wave Harmony, which replaced the Cabo Star, will be fully operationalized by 1 March.
