St. Vincent Prime Minister Highlights Challenges of Regional Ferry Service
Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent acknowledges the challenges of executing a regional ferry service as Caricom leaders discuss it. He emphasizes the complexities and financial viability concerns, suggesting legislative groundwork and a pilot program. Connect Caribe is also working on a regional ferry service, aiming to launch it in 2024 despite previous delays.
During recent discussions among Caricom leaders regarding the establishment of an inter-island passenger ferry service, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines expressed the logistical challenges of this initiative. He acknowledged the necessity of regional ferry transport but noted its complexity and difficulties, highlighting the need for practical consideration in such endeavors.
Prime Minister Gonsalves revealed that while the ferry topic is expected to emerge during conversations on the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME), he emphasized the current absence of discussions on the matter in the closed-door sessions. He explained that if ferry transport was simple, it would have been established by now, pointing out existing smaller-scale ferry services between St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as well as connections to Trinidad and Barbados.
He underscored financial viability concerns, citing that if potential profits existed, entrepreneurs would have already initiated such services. Gonsalves asserted the need for state intervention while indicating that it would not be straightforward. He further mentioned the significant legislative work required to facilitate the movement of passengers across borders and suggested a pilot program involving select countries for this initiative.
Gonsalves quoted Ecclesiastes, highlighting the importance of perseverance in attempting new solutions, indicating a patient approach will be necessary. He reassured the need to remain grounded during this exploration. On another note, Connect Caribe, a subsidiary of Barbadian maritime company Pleion Group Inc, announced its plans for a regional ferry service, originally scheduled to commence in August 2024, but announced delays. The service intends to connect Barbados with several Caribbean nations in the first quarter of this year.
In summary, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines recognizes the necessity of a regional ferry service while cautioning about the logistical complexities that accompany such an enterprise. He emphasizes the need for further discussion, legislative efforts, and potentially a pilot program. Meanwhile, Connect Caribe is focused on launching its regional ferry service despite delays, reflecting ongoing interest in improving inter-island connectivity.
Original Source: www.guardian.co.tt
Post Comment