Man Questions $82.6 Million Moruga Fishing Centre While Showing Poor Conditions Facing Local Fishermen
A man is raising questions about the $82.6 million Gran Chemin Fishing Centre in Moruga, highlighting its reported closure while showing what he describes as the deteriorating facilities fishermen are still expected to use.
In a video report, the man draws attention to the multimillion-dollar development, referencing findings from the Auditor General’s 2025 report to support his concerns about the use of public funds.
According to the report, total expenditure on the project stood at TT$82,629,341.90 at the end of the 2025 financial year. The facility was officially opened on 31 January 2025 but was found closed to the public when auditors visited in April 2026.
The development was designed to provide modern infrastructure for fishermen, including wholesale and retail market spaces, 91 equipment storage units, refrigeration and cold-storage facilities, and designated areas for boat engine repairs.
However, the man claims the centre remains closed despite the substantial expenditure.
He then turns his attention to another facility, which he describes as the location fishermen are expected to continue using.
The footage highlights damaged storage cupboards and missing panels in areas reportedly intended for fishermen to secure their equipment.
The report also features a community member calling for greater opportunities for young people in the area.
The speaker suggests introducing short vocational courses, including small-engine repairs, so residents could benefit directly from the fishing industry’s development.
The contrast between the facilities shown in the video and the infrastructure promised at the new centre raises questions about whether the investment is delivering meaningful benefits to the fishing community.
While the Auditor General confirmed the centre was closed during the April 2026 inspection, the report did not establish why it was closed or whether it subsequently reopened.
The man’s claim that the centre remains closed has not been independently confirmed.
The video has nevertheless brought renewed attention to the project, raising questions about its operational status, the availability of promised services and when fishermen in Moruga will fully benefit from the multimillion-dollar development.
