Opposition Senator Melanie Roberts-Radgman has described ongoing problems with the inter-island sea-bridge as a “national crisis.”
She said the government has mismanaged the inter-island sea-bridge, which has severely affected Tobago’s economy.
Speaking at a PNM media conference on Wednesday, Roberts-Radgman said the loss of the Cabo Star left Tobago vulnerable.
She criticized what she called the poor communication between the central government and the Tobago House of Assembly.
Senator Roberts-Radgman also alleged that the Port Authority was excluded from the procurement process for the new vessel.
She raised concerns about the suitability and safety of the replacement vessel, the Blue Waters Harmony.
Ms Roberts-Radgman said Tobago’s reliance on the service for food, medicine, tourism, construction supplies, and general commerce, means the disruption has resulted in shortages, business losses and economic strain.
She called for urgent attention to the probem, and stressed that the sea bridge is not a luxury to Tobago but a necessity.
Roberts-Radgman urged greater transparency, accountability, and decisive action to restore reliable service.
