New North West ferry under consideration– Minister Benn

In the near future residents of  North West, Region One will be benefiting from a new ferry which will accommodate both passengers and cargo. It is expected that the new vessel will more comfortable, faster, thereby reducing the  hours of travelling,and will accommodate more passengers.

This announcement was made by Minister of Public Works, Robeson Benn during  community meetings in Region One over the weekend.

The Minister told the residents of this development at White Water where concerns about river transport were raised. Residents said that they are challenged by the travel schedule which is restricted due to the dry-docking of the vessel, Kimbia which is undergoing repairs to the hull and machinery.

The boat is expected to be back in service in a few weeks. Before the Kimbia started to service the North West, the Lady Northcote and the Barima were traversing the route.

Minister of Public Works, Robeson Benn addressing residents of White Water, Region One during which he announced that a new ferry is under consideration for the North West.

Minister Benn indicated that active discussions are ongoing with regards to obtaining the  new boat, and it is anticipated that it will be acquired within 12  to 18 months.

It was observed that much of the agricultural produce in the Region originates from Georgetown, and   Minister Benn is optimistic that that trend would be reversed when the new boat is secured since in the past a lot of agricultural produce originated from the North West.

The decision to procure a new boat for the Region follows similar actions for the Essequibo Coast and surrounding islands which are being serviced by two roll-on/roll-off ferries. These interventions are a part of the government’s thrust towards ensuring that Guyanese have access to reliable and safe water transportation, and that they are also able to access critical products and services.