The Ministry of Transport has convened a meeting in response to reports that public transport operators are restive about their longstanding demand for a fare increase.

The demand has intensified following recent developments overseas, which have triggered an increase in fuel prices across the globe, including in Jamaica.

Representatives of the Transport Authority and groups representing public transport operators are expected to attend the meeting, which Finance and Public Service Minister Fayval Williams will address.

The meeting is to take place at the Transport Centre in Half-Way-Tree St Andrew.

Minister Vaz says: “The Government is sensitive to challenges facing members of the public who have been trying to cope with price adjustments caused by developments across the globe. We are also aware of and appreciate the concerns of public transport operators who have been expecting a fare increase for some time now, and are also now facing the burden of increased fuel costs. We also recognise that it is important that a balance be struck and a solution arrived at which does not have major negative consequences for our economy and wider society.

 “I have been in discussion with the groups representing transport operators over the past few years and am well aware of their concerns. I encourage them to allow calm to prevail as the Government seeks to arrive at a solution that causes the least possible dislocation across the country, but is also responsive to their genuine concerns and also mindful of the cost-of-living challenges which face the wider population.”