The Point Lisas Development Company officially commissioned mobile container scanners and a training centre in Point Lisas, aimed at improving port security and enhancing the efficiency of port workers in the country.
In his first address as the Minister of Finance, Vishnu Dhanpaul commended PLIPDECO for the commission of the non-intrusive Mobile container scanners that would enhance port security in Point Lisas and the Port Of Spain docking stations.
Of the 4 scanners, estimated to cost a total of 87.5 million TTD, 2 were commissioned at the Port of Port of Spain and the other two in Point Lisas on Saturday.
“In an era of rapidly evolving global trade, safeguarding our borders while facilitating seamless commerce is essential. The introduction of non-intrusive technology represents a transformational in how we conduct cargo inspection. By leveraging high resolution x-ray and gamma-ray imaging, these scanners enable non-invasive real-time assessments of container contents expediting the potential of extra threats while minimizing disruptions to trade.”
Minister Dhanpaul added that the implementation of the scanners will also improve the port’s operational efficiency, contributing greatly to economic growth.
“Cargo clearance processes will become more streamlined minimizing bottlenecks and enhancing overall port productivity. This in turn will result in substantial cost saving optimized resource allocation and a more competitive business environment solidifying Trinidad and Tobago’s position as a premium trade and logistic hub in the Caribbean.”
The equipment and training center is a cutting-edge facility utilizing high technology. It trains port workers through simulations in a safe, risk-free environment. Minister of Works and Transport Rohan Sinanan said the move will greatly enhance the country’s maritime position.
“The facility has the potential to become a training hub in the region for Port equipment simulation training. As such, in the medium to long-term, the facility can generate additional revenue for the cooperation from port equipment training.”
Emphasizing the importance of collaboration, the President of the Seamen and Waterfront Workers Trade Union stated that the full utilization of the new equipment and training for port workers requires the collaboration of all stakeholders.
“There must be a commitment to working with the union and other stakeholders to take the port to its real potential cause if we fail to do that, we will be failing Trinidad and Tobago. I want to assure the Minister and his team that the Sea Man and Waterfront Trade Union is committed to working to working genuinely and seriously for a better port of Port of Spain and a port of Point Lisas.”
The mobile scanners, operational in both the Point Lisas and Port of Spain ports, will assist greatly with detecting and deterring the smuggling of illicit substances.