Public Works Minister Trevor Moniz yesterday applauded construction crews and engineers, for completing upgrade work on Heritage Wharf before the mega-cruise ship Breakaway arrived at Dockyard.Although completed in 2009, Government announced last year that the wharf would have to be upgraded to accommodate larger vessels. Construction work finally got underway in March, and crews were in a race against time to get the facility completed before Breakaway’s arrival.Speaking at a welcoming ceremony for the luxury liner at Dockyard, Mr Moniz praised the “firm, steadfast, resolute determination” of his team in getting the job done.“The long anticipated arrival of the Breakaway has made international news, with all eyes focused on Bermuda over the past few months to see if we could pull off the amazing challenge of having the Heritage Wharf completed on time,” Mr Moniz said.“To accomplish a project of this magnitude, and scale, has required a great deal of teamwork from the Ministry’s engineers, the contractors to the technical advisers — truly a team effort.“Along the journey we faced many challenges, such as strong weather, to the loss of one of our operating cranes that caused some ill-timed delays. However, these unwelcome setbacks were met with a firm, steadfast, resolute determination to overcome, and prevail, as we remained focused on the task in hand.“To make up for lost time and continue forward with considerable progress, our personnel have worked diligently around the clock, working into the night and sometimes through the night.“Their unstinting and unyielding commitment deserves to be recognised, and I would like to acknowledge those here with me today that made this happen — well done to you all.”Although the wharf is now capable of accommodating mega-ships, Mr Moniz has acknowledged that some non-essential work still needs to be carried out.He explained that the construction of mooring dolphins had been hit by delays, but that these were not critical because they do not rest against the hull of the ship. Work on the dolphins will continue during the summer when cruise ships are not in port.“For those who have been following my weekly updates, you will be aware that, with a project of this complexity, and magnitude, some aspects remain outstanding,” Mr Moniz said.However, this eventuality was carefully planned for and contingencies were established from the outset to ensure that there would be no obstacle to the arrival of the Norwegian Breakaway.“These contingencies were discussed with Norwegian Cruise Line officials, and, I am happy to report, met with their satisfaction, and approval.“This process has been the culmination of a massive team effort, and a great deal of sacrifice to pursue the ultimate goal — a project that has been executed with a high degree of professionalism, and technical savvy.“Everyone who contributed to this project should rightly be proud of the job they have done, not just for the Ministry of Works, but for Bermuda.”