Works Minister says no cargo backlog to Tobago

 Stephon Nicholas

Minister of Works and Infrastructure Jearlean John has denied claims of a cargo backlog at the Port of Port of Spain, despite concerns from the business community about unreliable cargo service to Tobago. She made the statement following a visit to the port on Monday morning, during which she boarded the MV Blue Wave Harmony as it loaded cargo for a 9:30 pm sailing.

During her visit, John met with senior executives, including Marcia Charles-Elbourne, general manager and CEO of the Port Authority, Ravi Seereeram, acting president of the National Infrastructure Development Company Ltd (NIDCO), and operational teams to assess cargo handling performance, vessel turnaround times, and storage capacity.

In a media statement following the visit, the minister said reports of a backlog were inaccurate. “Since the commencement of sailings of the Blue Wave Harmony, no cargo has remained at the ports in Trinidad or Tobago awaiting transportation, and all cargo presented for shipment has been cleared for sailing,” she said.

The Blue Wave Harmony arrived in Trinidad on January 22, ten days after the Cabo Star left, and has since faced several mechanical issues, including hull damage. Its captain, Tim Fenech, continues to conduct sea trials alongside a local marine pilot as the March 1 deadline for the first commercial sailing approaches. Some members of the business community and the Opposition have called for the vessel to be replaced.

John insisted the vessel, reportedly leased at US$25,000 per day, is suitable for the inter-island seabridge. “The Blue Wave Harmony, which has 1,925 lane metres of cargo capacity, can serve the needs of the country, with supplemental capacity being provided by passenger vessels which can accommodate up to 7,000 kg cargo vehicles,” she said.

She explained that the ongoing sea trials form part of a controlled operational roll-out aligned with internationally recognised maritime safety standards governing vessel certification, pilotage, and overall operational readiness.

“The efficient movement of cargo between Trinidad and Tobago remains a critical national priority, as it directly supports commerce, strengthens supply chain stability, and ensures the timely delivery of goods to businesses and citizens,” John said. She added that she will continue a hands-on, on-the-ground approach to ensure sustained operational efficiency and a reliable inter-island cargo service.