Crisis Looming In The Transportation Sector In Jamaica

I understand that a significant number of transport operators from across the island had a meeting tonight under the umbrella of TODSS (Transport Operator Development Sustainable Services). Operators strongly voiced their opinions about the attitude of the transport ministers over the years, who they claim have all ignored their plight. The operators contend that the cost of operations have increased significantly since the last increase. One operator pointed out that that the air fare from Jamaica to Canada has increased from CAD300 to CAD800, to highlight his point that the cost of travelling has increased significantly.

Egeton Newman
President of TODSS

The operators are becoming more restless and some were ready to take action tomorrow in order to forcibly drive home their point that they cannot continue with the low government regulated fares. I was advised by one member of TODSS that the rural operators have not had a fare increase for over 16 years. 

Some operators were ready to take action on Thursday, May 20, 2021, but the leaders of TODSS  advised it's members that it would be best to hear from the Transport Minister first, when he makes his presentation in parliament next Tuesday.

If the operators are not happy with the presentation of the minister in terms of addressing their issues positively, then the nation could see a disruption in the transportation sector next week, Wednesday, May 26, 2021. Commuters will therefore need to brace themselves next week for possible more transportation woes.

In the meantime, operators will have black flags on their vehicles as a sign of protest, starting on Thursday, May 20, 2021.

Robert Montague
Minister of Transport & Mining

I hope to get more information from the President of TODSS, Mr. Egeton Newman because it seems as if a crisis is looming in the transportation sector.

It is hoped that the Minister of Transport and Mining, Robert Montague will take the necessary steps to avert a complete lock down of the transport sector, because this could be far more damaging to the economy which is already struggling under Covid-19.

Note: I have been reliably informed that Minister Robert Montague will make his presentation in parliament on Wednesday.