Transport and Finance Ministers to meet taxi operators today over outstanding fare increase

By Natalie Campbell and Shanice Gibbs

The Transport and Finance Ministers are to meet with public transport operators today as the operators grow increasingly impatient over the delays in implementing the second phase of the fare increase.

The Government approved a 35% fare increase in October 2023, implementing a 19% hike at that time.

The remaining 16% was due in April 2024.

However, the second phase was deferred amidst broader economic concerns.

Government Spokesperson, Senator Abka Fitz-Henley, told IRIE FM News that today’s meeting is in response to reports which emerged over the weekend that operators planned to withdraw their service today.

They have reportedly called off the protest to facilitate the meeting, which will be held at the Transport Centre in Half-Way-Tree, St. Andrew.

Senator Fitz-Henley noted that the Government is sensitive to the challenges facing members of the public who have been trying to cope with price adjustments caused by developments across the globe.

He said the Government has also acknowledged the concerns of the operators who have been expecting a fare increase for some time and are now facing the additional burden of increased fuel costs.