Hylton calls on gov't to resolve rising tension at Port of Kingston

Opposition Spokesperson on Investment, Trade & Global Logistics, Anthony Hylton, is urging the government to be proactive in its response to reported rising tension at the Port of Kingston among some workers.

The workers reportedly called in sick yesterday for their shift at Kingston Freeport Limited to register their disquiet.

Hylton is calling for a social dialogue among all stakeholders to ensure the return to calm and the lowering of tensions necessary to foster such dialogue.

"The threat of instability at the port at this time is most concerning given the congestion already existing at the port due to uncertainties in the regional and global maritime sector, affecting local businesses during the Christmas Holiday period and continuing. A full-blown strike or other sustained industrial action by workers at this time would exacerbate the already difficult situation. Such actions could jeopardise planned investments in the further expansion of the Port of Kingston, critical to making the Port more competitive and resilient in achieving the goal of becoming a global logistics and trade hub."

Against this background, the opposition spokesperson is urging the Government to act proactively to forestall any further escalation in this matter and urges calm among all stakeholders in the search for a sustainable solution.

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