Workers at the Port of Port of Spain have been ordered to return to work immediately. The Port Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (PATT) obtained an injunction from the Industrial Court on Tuesday.
The legal action was taken after workers repeatedly failed to report for duty amidst ongoing wage negotiations.
Over the past few weeks, the workers’ actions have severely disrupted shipping schedules, impacted port operations, and hindered the timely delivery of goods and services to key local and regional stakeholders.
Chairman of the Port Authority Lyle Alexander said, the Authority never wanted to take this action, but they felt they had no choice. He said the workers have taken steps that threaten the port’s operations and are affecting livelihoods. And the Authority has a duty to protect the interests of its stakeholders and the country.
He mentioned at a national level, the Port’s operations account for approximately fifty-nine percent (59%) of the country’s container volumes. And prolonged disruptions could have far-reaching consequences for the economy and essential supply chains.