Customs clerks complain over lack of washroom facilities

Senior Reporter

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Several Customs clerks are expressing frustration over the lack of accessible washroom facilities at the San Fernando Customs office.

According to the clerks who spoke to Guardian media on the condition of anonymity, roughly 60 clerks visited the office on a daily basis, some even spending up to eight hours there, yet they were unable to use on-site restrooms.

“They say its not for us. It’s for the Customs and Excise officers. This going on long time now,” a customs clerk complained.

Instead, they are reportedly forced to rely on facilities at nearby food outlets and businesses.

“This is a public building and it is supposed to have public washroom facilities. This is ridiculous,” another clerk complained.

The workers noted that they previously used the Point Lisas Customs office, but since earlier this year, they have been using the San Fernando offices due to renovations at Point Lisas.

On January 21, the Container Examination Station (CES) at the Port of Point Lisas was closed due to structural issues.

The clerks said they were hoping that the matter could be addressed soon.

When contacted, Communications Specialist at the Customs and Excise Division Alicia Charles-Primus indicated she would call back but there was no further communication up to press time.