PM Commends Kingston Container Terminal’s Role in Hurricane Relief Efforts

Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, has commended Kingston Freeport Terminal Limited (KFTL) for its role in facilitating the quick and seamless delivery of aid into the island following the passage of Hurricane Melissa in October.

“The shipping sector rallied around Jamaica in ensuring that very shortly after the passage of the hurricane, the necessary aid cargo was facilitated into the country seamlessly. It was a sight to see all the ships coming in, cargo unloading, and moving to the places where they are needed,” Dr. Holness affirmed during a ceremony to commission two new ship-to-shore cranes at the container terminal in Kingston on December 3.

He further highlighted the quick recovery of the port, emphasising that it was up and running one day after the passage of the hurricane.

Dr. Holness said that all the island’s major ports, including those dedicated to cruise shipping, are now operational.

“We note that there was some damage to Falmouth and Montego Bay but the Port Authority worked seriously to have those repaired, and the communities that rely on cruise shipping can say that the efforts have yielded great benefit,” he said.

The Prime Minister noted, as well, that the Reynolds Pier in Ocho Rios, St. Ann, which was damaged during a weather event two years ago, is back in operation.

President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Port Authority of Jamaica (PAJ), Professor Gordon Shirley, said the PAJ and KFTL are happy to be a part of the Hurricane Melissa relief and recovery process.

“We are also very pleased that we are getting ready to be able to handle the recovery cargo that will be coming in to build out the economy,” he affirmed.

In his remarks, CEO at KFTL, Carlos Cabrera, noted that the company mobilised immediately in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa.

“Within 24 hours, despite the challenges, our teams had restored the terminal’s operations, ensuring the flow of critical supplies into the country. We were privileged to receive the first relief vessels from the French Navy, and in the days that followed, we handled several additional humanitarian aid vessels with urgency and with care,” Mr. Cabrera said.

He noted that KFTL also supported local businesses, providing free storage in collaboration with the Port Authority.

“We continue providing that support with discounted rates and special operations for any relief cargo coming in. We stood firmly with our employees – many were personally affected – and we assisted with grants, interest-free loans, and the necessary time off to recover and to take care of their families,” the KFTL CEO added.