HIGH WINDS, WAVES PUSH SHIP AGAINST STRUCTURE
A section of the Ocho Rios Pier was damaged Tuesday when a cruise ship was pushed by high waves and unusually strong winds against the structure.
An assessment was being done late Tuesday to determine the extent of the damage. However, initial reports say the damage is extensive and has rendered the pier inoperable for at least several days if not weeks.
Chairman of the Jamaica Cruise Council, Michael Belnavis confirmed the damage and said it was unfortunate at this time when Ocho Rios was getting an increased number of cruise vessels. He said in a worst-case scenario the Reynolds Pier next door would be used to take up the slack.
Mr Belnavis said stakeholders including representatives of the Port Authority of Jamaica and Jamaica Vacations were at the pier Tuesday.
A section of the Pier called the Fender was the part damaged.
More details when they become available.
C Hall