Following another Supply Chain meeting, which was held today at 3 p.m., the Ministry of National Security wishes to update the public on the proactive measures being taken to mitigate any potential impact from the strike action by approximately 45,000 port workers along the coastal United States.
Minister of National Security, Michael Weeks, stated: "Today's meeting was productive and reaffirmed our preparedness to handle any disruptions that may arise. I want to assure the public that contingency plans are in place to ensure the continuity of essential imports to the Island."
Local grocery stores confirmed during the meeting that they have six to eight weeks' supply of non-perishable goods and one to two weeks' supply of perishable items, indicating that there is plenty of stock currently on the Island.
Minister Weeks emphasised that residents can rest assured that local stores are well-stocked, and critical items will continue to be shipped.
One shipping line confirmed that they would be able to carry products to Bermuda from another port in New Jersey, where the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) action will not impact operations. Overall, shipping will continue to and from New Jersey.
"We have sufficient dry containers and refrigerated containers (reefers) available to transport goods," Minister Weeks noted. "Pharmaceuticals will not be affected as they are brought in by air freight, which means that medical supplies remain uninterrupted."
Stevedoring Services Limited, the Island's dock managers, confirmed that they can handle the volume that will arrive at the Hamilton Docks via one ship.
Minister Weeks added, "When work resumes by the ILA — assuming they do go out on strike on 1 October — Bermuda Container Line will not see any disruption to the resumption of their services at the New Jersey docks.”
The Minister also urged vendors to assist in the smooth operation of the supply chain by returning all containers, especially the “reefers”, to the Hamilton Docks as soon as possible.
He concluded, "We are committed to keeping the supply chain moving efficiently. While there may be minor delays, our comprehensive contingency plan is designed to minimise any potential impact. We also are very appreciative of all the efforts being made by the local shipping lines, wholesalers and other agencies who are working together to ensure that there is minimal disruption to the provision of goods for Bermuda.”
"The Government will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide further updates as necessary."