Raftsmen contracted to Rio Grande Rafting, Portland's premier tourist attraction, are seeking Government assistance with the rebuilding of the Grants Level raft stand, which was destroyed in 2005.

A spokesperson for the group, and raftsman for more than 45 years, Basil Bunting, said the loss of the Grants Level rafting facility has severely disrupted rafting operations and has also crippled their livelihood.

He noted that only the Berridale raft stand remains operational, leaving raftsmen at a disadvantage, as only about 10 of the more than 80 contracted raft captains are used each month to ferry tourists down the river. The remaining raftsmen, he said, are left to fend for themselves.

Future seems drained

He said most raftsmen have not earned a dollar for several months now, and that all hope for a brighter future seems drained. He pointed out that restoration of the raft stand could see an improvement in business as the roadway is being prepared to accommodate tour bus operators.

The raft stand was destroyed by hurricanes Dennis and Emily in 2005. The structure of the building crumbled during torrential rainfall last year, after the nearby Rio Grande overflowed its banks.

It costs US$52 or the Jamaican equivalent for the 8 1/2 mile ride aboard the bamboo fashioned rafting vessels from Berridale to Rafters Rest in St. Margaret's Bay. Of that amount, the raftsmen are paid US$20 each.