Dear  Editor,

For several months now the Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) has withdrawn the ferry service from Port Georgetown to Port Kaituma, Matarkai, Sub-Region 1. Ever since T&HD has discontinued this service the poor people and pensioners are finding it difficult to travel to Georgetown, and although there are other means of transportation these are of course costly.

However, special mention should be made of Mr Anthony De Abreu for his shipping service, which has been providing for the business, mining and agricultural sectors there at Kaituma and surrounding locations. The residents of this sub-region should be grateful for this wonderful service. It is therefore my hope that we the residents organize a special thanksgiving church service on Mr De Abreu’s behalf, for his continued service and contribution to this sub-Region.

Let me turn my attention to the roadways in this sub-region. Over the years, Editor, the road has been a problem for vehicles. When drivers have to go long distances – a six or seven hour journey to unload their cargo – many on their return journey suffer with either broken springs, punctured tyres or mechanical problems. The maintenance of vehicles is costly, especially on this road in its present condition. In the circumstances, consideration should be given to a waiver on toll fees for vehicle owners.

Let me take this opportunity to advise vehicle owners to form a drivers’ association; elect a chairman, vice-chairman, secretary and treasurer; and voice their grievances through this means to the relevant authority, whenever the need arises.

Whatever might be the problem for drivers, they cannot manage individually, only collectively.

Yours faithfully,
I H Roberts