The Tribune

By YOURI KEMP

Tribune Business Reporter

ykemp@tribunemedia.net

Bus drivers yesterday said the Ministry of Transport (MOT) needs to just get on with increasing jitney fares rather than delay any decision until the New Year.

Harrison Moxey, the United Public Transportation Company's (UPTC) president, told Tribune Business that his members want the new fares to be determined and implemented before Christmas.

The increase has reportedly been agreed already at 25 cents for adults, taking the total bus fare to $1.50, but the Ministry of Transport wants to stage a Town Hall meeting to discuss the move with the public and understand how it will impact them.

Mr Moxey said: “I guess they want to butter both sides of the coin, which right now is upsetting to us. We’re not playing politics, we’re not politicians. We just want what is due to us. It’s the politicians who have to go about pleasing the public and making grand announcements, but in the meantime we’re feeling the pinch.”

Bus drivers were among the industries that felt the brunt of the COVID-19 pandemic's financial impact, as they were required to operate with reduced passenger loads of 50 percent once services emerged form lockdown. The sector was then hit with inflation and the cost of living crisis, including the increase in gasoline and diesel prices.

Mr Moxey added: “We have something tentatively planned for December 18, but I am waiting on them to confirm with me if whether or not this is the time. We’re waiting to see what’s going to happen after December 18, and we’re trying to get that sorted before the end of the year, but we’re definitely not into first quarter talks.”

The bus industry's unification programme is also being pushed into the New Year. “We have a plan now that we’re going to try to push through some things for next year, but it’s still alive and well and we are still very enthusiastic about it," Mr Moxey added.