Investment in maritime transport contributes to economic development of "Triangle" islands
The "quiet revolution" undertaken by the Azorean Government in the area of maritime transport is fundamental to the development of "Triangle" islands (Pico, Faial and São Jorge), defended the Regional Secretary for the Economy in Horta today.
Luísa Schanderl spoke at the blessing ceremony of new pilot-boat, named after “Joss Van Hurtere.” The government official considered that the new pilot-boat "will improve maritime operations at the Horta port and contribute to its increasing assertion as a fundamental factor for maritime transport in the "Triangle" islands. In this context, the opening of the new Maritime Passenger Terminal in the last weekend will reinforce this importance.
According to the Regional Secretary for the Economy, "the entry into operation of the new pilot-boat is intended to increasingly improve the services and the assistance provided to maritime operation with modern equipments with capacity for towing small vessels, supporting the evacuation of crew members as well as search and rescue operations."
The government official recalled that the Regional Government is building "a strategy for the Sea Economy in order to improve its relevance in times of economic uncertainty and great challenges."
Under this strategy, the Government has invested "in the maritime passenger transport during the summer, which has brought unprecedented mobility to all of our islands. We have promoted the construction of infrastructures for recreational boating that have increased the number of tourists and fostered the creation of companies dedicated to maritime activities. In the specific case of "Triangle" islands, we have invested in round trips to São Jorge, allowing the possibility of round-trips on the same day with timetables that meet the needs of the population and the tourists who visit us."
According to Luísa Schanderl, this "is a good way to promote the Government's assertion as a partner for our families and companies. This strategy aims to take action in the sectors that can boost the economy, thus contributing to the creation of new companies and jobs, which will bring wealth to our islands, particularly to the smaller; the latter have features; the latter have features that cannot be ignored while enhancing their potentialities."
The vessel which now enters into operation will provide the Horta port with an operational reliability for the future. With 17.85 gross tonnes, a bollard pull capacity of 4.5 tonnes and a service speed of 25 knots, this pilot-boat represents the best there in terms of naval technology for this type of vessel.
The four pilot-boats commissioned to operate in the ports of "Triangle" islands and Western Group represent a global investment of about 2 million Euros.
Of the four vessels commissioned, three have already entered into operation in the ports of Velas, S. Roque and Horta. The vessel to operate in Flores port is currently being assembled.
Simone Rodrigues, a 11th form student from Manuel de Arriaga Secondary School, was the godmother of the pilot-boat "Joss Van Hurtere"; she was one the best students of the last academic year.