This as the modern Kingstown Ferry terminal, the first component of a major restructuring project underway at the SVG Port Authority, opens its doors at the end of this month.

In an interview with the Agency for Public Information (API) Executive Assistant at the Port Peter Prescod said the modern facility was conceived when the Port Authority decided to undertake a study to see in what way they could regulate the movement of people and cargo along the Grenadines Wharf area.

In doing the study, Prescod told the API that the port officials recognized that they could offer a better service to all persons using the facility and that economic opportunity exists, not only for the port but also for the operators. He pointed out that the restructuring of the ferry berth is a positive step for this country in light of the International Ship and Port Security (ISPS) code which was introduced after the September 11 bombings of the World Trade center in America.

The ISPS Code introduced a lot of restrictions, with which this country had to comply, in order to ensure the safe movement of people and cargo. Persons using this facility will be required to pay a EC$1.00 user fee and with its wide range of services including being fully air conditioned, having proper toilet facilities, internet, cafeteria, a bar, news stand, lockers, cable television, telephone cards service and proper seating facilities, Prescod believes it is quite reasonable.

The Departure Lounge is comprised of two floors. Mr. Prescod explained that the basement is the more controlled area which passengers can only access if they present a port ticket as well as the passage ticket. On the other hand, the upstairs is more open where passengers can relax and have a snack. At the time of departure, announcements will be made on a PA system after which passengers can then queue and board the vessel. Meanwhile Head of the Grenadines Affairs Directorate Mr. Edwin Snagg is quite pleased with this facility since it will be beneficial to the people traveling to and from the Grenadines. Speaking to the API Snagg recalled times when he himself had the 'indignity of waiting sometimes in rain and or sun for a ferry.' He said for years the people of the Grenadines have been calling for a facility like this one and he is happy that this has now been addressed. He added that all Vincentians should be proud of the facility because one gets a feeling of respect and some measure of security using the services. Snagg chided persons who have raised concerns about the EC$1.00 fee to use the facility, noting that "it is below the dignity of a person to raise issues with the fee for something that is designed for the comfort and security of the people." He said the important thing is for persons who will be using the facility to do so with pride and care.

All the measures are expected to be in place for the opening of the new Kingstown Ferry Terminal at the end of this month. The second phase of the reconstruction project is the Bequia component which is currently in the design stage.