After several weeks of standoff between Port of Spain port workers and the Trinidad and Tobago Port Authority (PATT), its chairman Lyle Alexander confirmed that all its operations had been shut down yesterday.

The closure was the result of industrial action by workers, according to Alexander. The workers are represented by the Seafarers and Waterfront Workers’ Union (SWWTU) and its president, Michael Annisette, said PATT continues to fail to fulfill its obligations and commitments to date.

Alexander explained in an interview yesterday with TV6 that “the morning crew that reported for work held back their work once they arrived and did not provide the necessary work to unload some vehicles of our cargo that we have to side as well as two other vessels requiring unloading. of containers. So, they suspended their work on these ships and this significantly affected our operations today (yesterday).

He added: “Other areas were affected in terms of container deliveries, so we had to close the door at 1 p.m. today as well. We have been significantly affected today.

Asked which afternoon shift was reporting for work, Alexander could not confirm at that time. Previously, the Trinidad and Tobago Defense Force was called in to assist the port with its operations during worker protests in October.

However, Alexander said that was not the case this time. “The circumstances on this occasion were slightly different and as such this response was not necessary at this time,” he said.

A Port of Spain press release issued to stakeholders and customers yesterday said the port “is experiencing disruption in all areas of its operations. This is due to the unplanned absence of the entire workforce.

He apologized for any inconvenience.

Commenting on the discussion between PATT and the union, Alexander said: “The discussions are really based on the position of the CPO (Chief Personnel Officer) and the position of the union. Discussions are happening based on advice from the CPO, at the moment that is where the discussions are.

Alexander went into more detail and declined to comment on whether or not there was any intervention from the minister. However, he indicated that the ministry is aware of what is happening, adding that “whenever the minister chooses to intervene, he will do so.”

Alexander admitted that the current impasse was affecting the country’s economy, adding that “we are concerned that we have reached this point.” We and the port are committed to our mandate of moving goods in and out of the country to keep the economy running, and we will do everything we can to ensure that happens. We hope that all stakeholders involved will also do their part to ensure that the economy keeps rolling.

Meanwhile, SWWTU President Michael Annisette said PATT continues to fail to fulfill its obligations and commitments to date. “PATT continues to fail to improve certain roles as previously discussed and agreed with the SWWTU. PATT’s unilateral decision to introduce a declaration form that employees must sign before receiving their promotion notice only adds fuel to the already heated industrial relations impasse.

“The continued unprofessional and unilateral approach is quite troubling and constitutes a deliberate departure from industrial relations best practice and a breach of the conduct and settlement practices between the parties. PATT’s unilateral decision to disregard the spirit of common sense, reasonable and good working standards and practices only contributes to the risk of exacerbating already existing tensions and only further increases the risk of “escalation of the current impasse which can be detrimental to both parties,” stressed Annisette. .

The union calls on PATT to honor the principles of mutual respect and collaboration, “thus fostering a harmonious industrial relations environment for the benefit of all stakeholders.”