Truckloads of goods destined to Tobago were turned away yesterday leaving scores of angry drivers who had confirmed tickets to board the Super Fast Galicia.
Trucks carrying the cargo, including cement, soft drinks and other items were seen leaving the area at 2.30 pm yesterday when the vessel was about to sail to Tobago.
One driver, who spoke to the T&T Guardian on the condition of anonymity, said he was upset as he it was the second consecutive day he had be denied entry on the vessel, although he had a confirmed ticket.
He said he and other drivers were told that the vessel was full and could not accommodate any more cargo.
He said the drivers were normally allowed to park their trucks at the Caricom jetty but were told that they should not park there and many cars were seen in that area.
The driver said he was told to return to the port this morning to be able to travel. He said he was seeking to transport $90,000 in cement for the Tobago House of Assembly.
Some claim that cargo from a major contractor was allowed to board the vessel.
Another official said cars which are usually transported on the fast ferry were allowed on board the Galicia.
Earlier there was tension on the port as some people claimed that their foodstuff were not being allowed on the vessel because of the amount of construction material being loaded.
Other drivers also expressed their disgust at the situation, saying it was very frustrating.
Contacted for comment yesterday, Marketing and Public Relations Manager at the Trinidad & Tobago Inter Island Transport Corporation Vilma Lewis-Cockburn said she was unaware of the developments but promised to look into it.
There is usually a significant increase in commuters to Tobago for the Easter weekend, which begins tomorrow and ends next week Monday.
