Boat ramp problem to get Ministry of PPID fix

Dana Malcolm

Staff Writer

#TurksandCaicos, September 29, 2023 – One major concern for Grand Turk fisherman and boaters has been addressed following a commitment from the Government to build a boat ramp for the community.

The commitment was made by Jamell Robinson, Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development during a recent town hall meeting alongside carnival cruises in Grand Turk.

The lack of a dock ramp for boaters and fishermen to use to get their crafts in has been a consistent complaint from residents in the capital, and when we asked about their concerns going into the town hall, it made the list again.

“Since the Government refused to provide small boat operators with an excursion dock or a proper ramp, I’ll be raising the issue to them of allowing boaters to use their excursion dock during inclement weather.”

One individual told us that during that meeting, the matter was settled as the minister confirmed the Government would be working towards the ramp.

When we spoke to the Minister of PPID he explained what they were planning.

“It is a boat ramp to allow the tour operators to easily launch their boats. I am confirming the cost which will have some indication of a timeline.”

There are dozens of fishermen and tour operators in Grand Turk, who act as facilitators of the tourism industry, either by hauling in the catch for upscale restaurants and local vendors or providing the boat excursions that would benefit from a resolve to the situation.