26 Aug 2009

French Polynesia faces port closure threat

1:37 pm on 26 August 2009

Ship operators in French Polynesia have threatened to block the port of Papeete if the government gives a licence for the high-speed ferry King Tamatoa.

According to local radio, a decision is expected tomorrow on whether the vessel will be allowed to offer a service between Tahiti and the Leeward Islands.

An operator has said that should a concession be granted, the existing providers will stop operations and then proceed to close the port to all shipping.

Those opposed to the additional service have said they will push for the public accounts office to examine the way the new venture is being funded.