Nonrenewal of Master License Threatens Boat Captain’s Livelihood

Christian Rivero

Like a driver’s license, Rivero’s master license expires on his birthday which is this Friday, June sixteenth. Time is running out for the career boat captain who says that the nonrenewal of the license threatens his livelihood.

Christian Rivero, Boat Captain, Caribbean Sprinter

“It’s a big deal for me because without that license, I have been doing this job for the past thirty thirty-five years. And if I don’t have a valid license, I cannot get a job anywhere else. And then, not renewing that license even at the company where I am working, I won’t be able to be driving boat until when, I don’t know what’s the further down the line. They said further notice they will renew or maybe they will or will not renew it. That’s what I was told.”

Duane Moody

“Have you reached out to the Ports Commissioner? I understand you’ve contacted the Ombudsman.”

Christian Rivero

“I went to the Ombudsman office and I did give them a statement and I am trying to see if they can work on the matter as soon as possible. I know the company, the directors on the board say that they are working on it also but at the moment, I haven’t received any calls from anyone that say you can go ahead and renew it.”

Duane Moody

“And the port authority hasn’t said anything?”

Christian Rivero

“No one has said anything at the moment.”