THE recent devastation caused by storm Beryl has starkly highlighted the gross failures of the Keith Rowley administration and the People’s National Movement (PNM) over the past 15 years.

As far back as September 2009, then-prime minister Patrick Manning envisioned a robust ship-building and repair industry at Chaguaramas, aiming to service the numerous vessels navigating the Caribbean waters. Chaguaramas, known for being the most sheltered port south of St Lucia, was identified as a potential hub for this sector.

Manning articulated the government’s intent, stating: ‘The government is looking at the potential of this sector,’ and emphasising that ‘the fast-growing marine sector has the capacity to stimulate the development of ship-building and ship repair facilities’.

Despite these promising words, the Rowley administration has utterly failed to deliver on this promise.

During the approach of Beryl, Finance Minister Colm Imbert acknowledged an ‘amazing influx’ of boats seeking refuge from Barbados, St Vincent, St Lucia and other territories.

However, he conveniently omitted the fact that the Government has consistently neglected its commitment to developing the marine sector, which would have positioned Chaguaramas as the premier port of call in the Eastern Caribbean.

One glaring example of this neglect is the outdated registration system. Visiting yachties complained about antiquated immigration and customs procedures, which still rely on manual forms rather than modern digital processes.

The Marine Services Association has long advocated for system modernisation, pointing out that other Caribbean territories utilise efficient digital software, allowing for swift electronic registration. Yet, the Rowley administration has remained indifferent to these calls for progress.

Manning’s vision included the marine sector as a cornerstone for economic diversification. He highlighted its labour-intensive nature and potential for significant economic contributions. Additionally, other sectors such as finance, printing and packaging, and food and beverage were also earmarked for development.

Despite Imbert’s initial budget announcement removing Value Added Tax on marine services, the sector remains grossly underdeveloped.

Chaguaramas, with its secluded and safe harbour, has proven attractive to yachties, especially during the Beryl storm. The marine services industry has shown interest in developing the sector to generate foreign exchange. One marine operator emphasised the urgency, stating, ‘It is long overdue that a repair and maintenance industry be strengthened, since our calm waters and skilled labour are attractive to yachties.’

Recent global statistics reveal a growing marine industry driven by an increased focus on leisure and relaxation, with the Caribbean becoming increasingly popular. It is evident that T&T should aim to become the premier regional hub. Advanced international ship repair facilities employ sophisticated tools and technology-a standard we must aspire to meet.

While several Caribbean countries have thriving industries catering to yachts, our nation has yet to fully realise this potential due to the Rowley administration’s persistent failures. It is imperative that we revisit and actualise the promises made 15 years ago to foster economic growth and establish ourselves as a leader in the marine sector.

Rushton Paray MP, Mayaro