2006, June 1: Grantley Stephenson, chairman and CEO of Kingston Wharves Limited (KWL), is of the view that Kingston Wharves is now the most efficient multi-purpose port in the Caribbean.

Mr. Stephenson is a Group B representative on the Caribbean Shipping Association’s (CSA) General Council and sits on the CSA’s Port Award Committee.

Mr. Stephenson, quoted in the Jamaica Observer newspaper recently (May 12, 2006), expressed the view that, with the staff training, heavy investment in high-tech equipment, the ‘intense computerization’ of operations and the significant infrastructural development taking place at the ports, KWL is the premier port of its kind in the Caribbean Region.

"We know we are on our way to achieving our goal of being the most efficient multi-purpose port in the region. … We are continuing our thrust to improve infrastructure and efficiency and to take advantage of opportunities which present themselves."

The report noted that Kingston Wharves (KW) now had three state-of-the-art mobile cranes and had gradually increased productivity over the last three years by close to 100 per cent.

"In terms of productivity, we have increased from 10 to 12 moves per hour to an average of 23 moves per hour."

He said that, in terms of infrastructural development, KW was now implementing a US $26.6 million redevelopment of Berths 8 and 9. This project, which was set to commence in early May, was already ahead of its commencement schedule.

"Work started on April 18 and is progressing satisfactorily," Mr. Stephenson told the Jamaica Observer newspaper.

The project was slated for completion in 15 months. The contractors are E PIHL & Son.

The Berths 8 and 9 redevelopment projects will see the rebuilding and expansion of these berths to accommodate vessels larger than those that the company currently handles. KW, which presently accommodates vessels which require 10 metres, will be dredging to 15 metres.