Wharf rates to be reduced

Henry-Wilson

THE GOVERNMENT has moved to reduce wharfage rates for certain goods with the aim of stimulating business at the wharves, Information Minister Maxine Henry-Wilson said yesterday.

She said the rate reduction was sought by the Ministry of Transport and Works which has responsibility for the wharves. She was speaking at yesterday's post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House.

Based on the new fees, goods other than motor vehicles left in transit sheds or open storage will now attract a daily rate of $20 for the first seven days. The rate after the seventh day will now be increased by $10 instead of $15 currently charged.

For motor vehicles, the rate for the first seven days will remain at $30 for the first day and an additional $15 per day up to day seven. The rate after day seven will now be $25 instead of the $30 that is now charged.

Meantime, Cabinet has given its approval for the sale of 1.0125 hectares (2.5 acres) of land in St. Ann's Bay to the St. Ann Parish Council to facilitate the development of a transportation centre and car park in the town. The property is owned by the Commissioner of Lands and is available for divestment Mrs Henry-Wilson said.

The transportation centre, to be operated by the Parish Council, will include sites to be used for commercial activities, vending shops, a storage area and parking bays for Pparish Council will charge rental for the vending shops.

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