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US dockworkers strike won’t affect VI’s October shipments- Hon Rymer

- Ministry monitoring strike as extension could eventually affect VI
Extended disruptions due to the strike by US dockworkers at 36 major ports from Maine to Texas which began on October 1, 2024, may lead to delays in shipments from the US to the Virgin Islands and the wider Caribbean. Photo: ABC
Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye M. Rymer has assured the people of the Virgin Islands (VI) that shipments expected for the month of October should not be affected by recent dockworkers’ strikes in the United States. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands
Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye M. Rymer has assured the people of the Virgin Islands (VI) that shipments expected for the month of October should not be affected by recent dockworkers’ strikes in the United States. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands
The BVI Port Authority has confirmed that the West Palm Beach Port, a vital hub for the Virgin Islands’ primary cargo carrier from the US, Tropical Shipping, is not participating in the dockworkers strike which began on October 1, 2024, in the US, and continues to operate normally. Photo: Tropical Shipping
The BVI Port Authority has confirmed that the West Palm Beach Port, a vital hub for the Virgin Islands’ primary cargo carrier from the US, Tropical Shipping, is not participating in the dockworkers strike which began on October 1, 2024, in the US, and continues to operate normally. Photo: Tropical Shipping
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI- Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye M. Rymer (R5) has assured the people of the Virgin Islands (VI) that shipments expected for October should not be affected by dockworkers’ strikes in the United States.

In a statement released on October 1, 2024, Hon Rymer said the government is “actively monitoring” the strike by dockworkers at ports along the US’ eastern seaboard affecting ports from Maine to Texas.

Dockworkers initiated the strike on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, following unsuccessful negotiations over wages and automation. This strike is affecting thirty-six major ports along the East and Gulf Coasts.

Tropical Shipping’s main hub not participating in strike

Confirmation of October shipments proceeding without interruption, Hon Rymer said, came from the British Virgin Islands Port Authority (BVIPA). In addition, Hon Rymer revealed that the West Palm Beach Port, a vital hub for the VI’s primary cargo carrier from the US, Tropical Shipping, is not participating in the strike and continues to operate normally.

“While our shipping lines do not operate through unionised ports, we recognise that the duration of these strikes could potentially impact our supply chain,” Hon Rymer said in the statement.

Steps being taken in event of extended strike

An extended strike has the potential to affect the islands of the Caribbean region as affected ports are crucial for importing essential goods like food, raw materials, and manufactured products.

While Minister Rymer said they remain hopeful for a swift resolution, he cautioned that extended disruptions may lead to delays in the VI’s shipments.

“It is crucial to note that shipping companies prioritise essential goods, and our supermarkets are actively coordinating with suppliers to manage inventory levels effectively,” he added.

Honourable Rymer said the Ministry of Communications and Works will keep the public updated as they continue to closely monitor the situation.

9 Responses to “US dockworkers strike won’t affect VI’s October shipments- Hon Rymer ”

  • Agree with you Hon. Rymer (02/10/2024, 08:23) Like (13) Dislike (0) Reply
    Yeah, It shouldn't, but some of these greedy supermarkets and gas stations was just waiting on the buzz word "Dock workers strike" and you will see, before the end of October, prices gone up on gas and several consumables. The poor soon can't afford bread and water. Don't talk about November and December. The funny thing is when the strike, war, etc. ends, prices remain. Hope this strike doesn't last too long. Oh well.
  • Hum (02/10/2024, 08:35) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
    Time will tell
  • ?? (02/10/2024, 08:41) Like (7) Dislike (0) Reply
    We will see at the checkout when we shop.
  • okay (02/10/2024, 09:13) Like (11) Dislike (0) Reply
    Let us see if when we go to the supermarket at the end of the week food prices is not going to go up. Pay close attention to the price you paid at the supermarket last week and see if it is not higher this week. I know I will be doing it when I go to the supermarket this weekend.
  • ....ha (02/10/2024, 09:41) Like (6) Dislike (0) Reply
    Fruits and vegetables go up..cold storags.once they have to use a longer tropical route prices goin up n we gkin feel the pinch
  • price gouging (02/10/2024, 11:45) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
    to the department responsible for consumer affairs, please be on the lookout for price gouging by supermarkets, stores etc. They tend to take advantage to make the extra buck when they weren't affected. They'll most likely start to carry up toilet paper price
    • Prices (02/10/2024, 12:57) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      That’s why I purchased mine already. I know them. One Mart has the 36 roll for $39.99, which is what the Chalwells have it for on a regular day, so either buy should be fine. You have to watch your dollars and cents.
      • @Prices (02/10/2024, 22:38) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
        I thought and did exactly what you did. When it comes to saving a penny, I know how. Another thing, don’t go to the supermarket without a list. If you don’t have a list, you will go over budget. If I have to drive around from supermarket to supermarket to save a nickel I will. I have two teenage boys and y’all that have teenage boys know how much they can eat..
    • @price goughing (02/10/2024, 15:25) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      These greedy business owners is going to use this as an excuse to raise their prices. WATCH.


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