- to deal with minibus fares issue
FORMER President of Guyana Mini-bus and General Workers’ Union, Mr. Claudius London, who previously represented operators for ten years, yesterday suggested ways in which the fares increase issue could be settled.

He said Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Mr. Manniram Prashad, should ensure that spare parts for minibuses are duty-free and gasoline is available for a special price at GUYOIL outlets.

“These are things he needs to look at. If they are realised, only then can the minister make a request for a reduction of fares,” London declared.

London told the Guyana Chronicle that the present increased cost of fuel and the overall operational expenditure are creating confusion in the arena of public transportation.

He observed that, recently, minibus owners met with Prashad to discuss the proposed fare hikes but the latter should have consulted his predecessor, Mr. Manzoor Nadir, to understand that he has no authority to control transportation fares.

London said the minibus association was right to have discussions on the problem with Prashad and then meet those operating the various routes, with a view to reviewing the present crisis and their roles in determining the new tariffs.

London said, after that, they should have informed the minister who has a responsibility to commuters and consumers.

He also disagreed with President Bharrat Jagdeo’s announced quest for cheaper fuel acquisition, declaring: “That is not good for the transportation sector. It would compound the problem, as the mileage would not be the same.”