New North West vessel ‘fit for purpose’– Gov’t

Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill (left) joined by Chairman of the Transport and Harbours Department Rosalinda Rasul (Center) and other officials from the Ministry of Public Works [Photo: News Room/ June 20, 2022]

He explained that when the vessel was launched in Kolkata, India, last week, it was merely 70 percent complete and now that the vessel is floating it will be completed with the installation of amenities.

“Got to put in all of the fittings which includes plumbing, electrical, all of the other amenities for the comfort of the boat. Those are not things you put in for the launching because they can be destroyed while launching,” he said.

Meanwhile, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Transport and Harbours Department, Rosalinda Rasul joined Edghill in clarifying that the ship is fit for its purpose.

“One of the most important things, when you’re selecting a vessel for any operations, is its fit for purpose and functionality,” Rasul said, noting that where the vessel will be traversing is rough terrain.

“If you had a sleeker, modern, nicer cruise liner vessel we’re going to get criticised for investing in a vessel that is not fit for purpose,” she added.

The vessel was designed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited – builders that construct vessels for the Indian Navy, Edghill said.

When completed, two teams of 10 persons each comprising of pilots and engineers will travel from Guyana to India to engage with the manufacturers for training to be able to service the vessel.