Port Workers on the Ball

While CIRO wrestless with expediting movements of cargo, Port Authority staff and related agencies have been burning the midnight oil – literally – to accommodate the almost quadrupled demand.

Analysis of the situation suggests that the problem may be the shortage of heavy equipment. It was also reported that Customs has relaxed inspection requirements and is doing fewer inspections than normal. Both departments are going the “extra mile” to expedite processing. Consideration also touched on the feasibility of asking shipping companies to increase capacity, among other solutions being pursued.

As an example of the extra effort being made, crews worked from early morning until 10:00pm last Sunday, and again to 2:00am on Monday in order to discharge shipments of CUC materials, including poles, vehicles and transformers for the ongoing electricity restoration effort.

Other goods are also being fast-tracked where possible, with priority given to foodstuff and refrigerated items. Because almost everything is for Grand Cayman’s recovery effort, there is no further special categorization for goods, such as building supplies and vehicles, which are being shipped as space allows.

However, port officials note that, with this increased volume of cargo, the processing and delivery is moving at a slower than usual pace. Individuals can assist by checking for uncollected shipments of personal items and importers are asked to check with their shipping companies to determine if their goods have arrived.