Tbgo: Ferry service in San F'do's future?

He added that the fast ferry could also ply between Trinidad and Tobago and Grenada to boost local tourism and even stop at Toco.

Sandy was speaking at a consultation on the recommendations of the Vision 2020 Infrastructure Sub Committee on Monday. He said the recommendations would point to where "we want to go" and plans using them as part of his 2004 Budget proposals.

Noting that Chief Secretary Orville London had already informed the Central Government on the type of ferry to be purchased, Sandy said the vessel reflected the 2020 vision.

"It must take us forward, not backward."

He said the fast ferry would carry more cargo including containers on flat bed trucks and 1,000 passengers, making a trip between Port of Spain and Scarborough in 2½ hours. He added that the ferry could make two and three trips a day.

Sandy said instead of spending more money on highways, the ferry could be used between Port of Spain and San Fernando and saw Scarborough being used as a hub to service Grenada. "We have to boost our local tourism. We can't rely on foreign tourism alone."