Ongoing issues with the sea bridge have brought Tobago’s construction sector to a near standstill, despite the introduction of the Blue Wave Harmony cargo ship.
This is according to PR Officer for the General Contractors Association of Tobago (JCAT), Jerron Quashie, who told 103.1FM News that since the transition of cargo vessels, deliveries to the island have been slower.
He says that shipments have now come to a near-halt, with contractors facing shortages of cement, steel, blocks and lumber.
Mr Quashie says small and medium-sized contractors are being forced to absorb rising costs due to contractual obligations.
He adds neither the Blue Wave Harmony nor the cargo barge has provided meaningful relief to the sector.
Mr Quashie says the Association continues to monitor the situation and will soon engage the line Minister for the sea-bridge, Jearlean John for more sustainable solutions to addressing the ongoing challenges.
He reiterates that the sea bridge is the “spine” of Tobago, a critical lifeline the island depends on, for its day-to-day operations.
