The MV Northcote, which was recently docked to facilitate maintenance is expected to be completed by October 16, while reports on the rehabilitation of the Bartica, Leguan and Parika stellings should be completed by this week, according to Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure Annette Ferguson.
Speaking at a press conference yesterday, Ferguson said the total cost of the docking of the vessel is $70 million and it is expected to be completed by October 16. She added that the repairs on the MV Northcote, which was docked on September 21, included all water fittings, interior and exterior decking and servicing of all machinery on board.
In addition to this, Ferguson also revealed, evaluations have commenced at the level of the National Procurement and Tender Board for the MV Kimbia and MV Sandaka. “We are currently finalizing the evaluation reports for the rehabilitation works for the Bartica, Leguan and Parika stellings,” she stated adding that these reports are expected to be finalized by the end of this week.
During this year’s election campaign, President David Granger had argued that the retention of the aging Lady Northcote, launched in 1937, and the MV Barima, which services the North West region, was holding back commerce and development. He promised the residents of the region a more modern and efficient service.
Meanwhile, at press engagement held last month, General Manager of the Transport and Harbours Department Marclene Merchant had bemoaned the state of not only the Lady Northcote but also the MV Barima and MV Torani. She had emphasised that they were in urgent need of repair and it would cost an estimated $270 million to repair the two vessels. The two boats have been out of commission for about three months.
Currently, the MV Kimbia is used for transporting passengers to the North West, while private ferries are used to take cargo.
