Opposition urges KFTL to resolve operational issues plaguing Kingston port

 

The parliamentary opposition is expressing concern about the damage that labour disruptions can have on the Port of Kingston's credibility.

 

Haulage contractors withdrew their service on Wednesday morning to protest the slow pace of processing at the facility.

 

Opposition spokesperson on Trade, Investment and Global Logistics, Anthony Hylton, says while Wednesday's industrial action by haulage contractors has been discontinued, there are other outstanding operational issues involving two categories of workers that should be urgently addressed.

 

"I am today calling on the management and stakeholders of the Kingston Freeport Terminal to act now and resolve the operational issues plaguing our port. The recent strike and work slowdown by crane operators and terminal staff alongside yesterday's haulage contractor protests are more than isolated incidents. They are a blow to Jamaica's reputation as a reliable and efficient port operation and to our quest to become a logistics hub. Let me be clear. Every disruption, every work stoppage erodes confidence," he cautioned. 

 

Mr. Hylton has reaffirmed the commitment to establish a National Logistics Council under a People's National Party government. He said the multi-stakeholder body will tackle logistical challenges, streamline operations and enhance collaboration among government, labour and industry leaders.