A sore on the Essequibo River

Jan 27, 2016 Letters

Dear Editor,
The Bartica Speed Boat Association has become disgusted with the blind eye turned by MARD to illegal speed boat operators plying the Parika/Bartica route. These illegal operators have become like mercenaries with complete disrespect for the laws of the land of Guyana. Instances of disrespecting the police, MARAD officers and fellow boat operators have become a daily norm. in this modern era where all over the world systems are put in place to avoid confusion, be efficient and provide a professional service. We in the Bartica Speed Boat Association have to go back thirty odd years fighting and scrambling for passengers as they come
The Maritime Administration is well aware of these daily occurrences and continues its hands off for strange reasons. Three MARAD officers are permanently placed at Parika and are called upon many times to intervene; all to no avail. Their interest seems to be focused more on the legal turn boats for if there is any deficiency that vessel is grounded until fixed, while the illegal operators continue to solicit passengers breach the system and carry on their daily routine. The Maritime Administration and the police have been placing the blame of who is the authority to sanction these persons at each other’s feet for years now: it’s most confusing to comprehend two government entities not knowing their respective roles as they relate to the laws of Guyana.
It should be noted that members are visibly frustrated, since it was MARAD who encourages a turn-system to members of this association, with the intention of assisting against any intruders. Now for some reason they have taken a retrograde step on their initial decision. I do wish this article reaches the people and expose the lawlessness encouraged by the Maritime Administration and that some action is taken to have this sore (illegal speed boat operating) treated and cured in the very near future.
Christopher Bell
President (Bartica Speed Boat Association)

Discover more from Kaieteur News

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Latest News