Corporation of Hamilton secretary Roger Sherratt refuted claims that the Hamilton docks were dangerously congested.

A dockworker told VSB that the docks were in poor quality and dangerous because of congestion. But Mr. Sherratt said they were not even filled to its maximum capacity.

The docks can handle over 800 containers and he said as of yesterday afternoon there were only 647 containers on the dock. He also added that there have not been any dock accidents in the past.

"There are still a large number of containers on the docks, particularly a large number of those that are empty. The numbers are always fluctuating especially since this week there were three cargo ships making deliveries so containers are always being taken on and off the docks."

One of the two cranes used to service the docks had serious mechanical problems and Mr. Sherratt said that was a large reason for the congestion.

"Currently, we're using a local replacement crane but it is unable to unload full containers and it can only be used to back load empty containers.

"The broken crane needs a new engine that is due to arrive next week. It really is somewhat of a slowdown. But there have been a purchase of two more cranes and they have an excellent design for the Hamilton docks, these should be in use some time in October."

He added: "The other issue adding to the problem is the Bermuda Islander has also had some mechanical problems and had to be put in dry dock for servicing.

"Some of its cargo was transferred from the ship to be transported to Bermuda so some of the empty containers she would have taken back have been left on the docks."