Taxi fare hike approved

Effective tomorrow, taxi fares will be increased. This was announced by Minister of Transport Santia Bradshaw.

The announcement follows last Saturday’s strike by taxi operators at the Grantley Adams International Airport (GAIA) who complained about not getting their promised increase in fares.

Many disgruntled operators lamented that the cost to ply their trade significantly increased due to the rising cost of living, and the regulated fare structure, made it difficult to earn a living.

Speaking at a news conference this morning, Bradshaw said the fare increase was a step in the right direction as operators had to contend with the same rates for the past 15 years.

“One of the things that concerned us and really brought this to a head was a disparity in the rates that existed. For instance, if you went from the seaport to the airport, you were paying $80 If you were coming from an airport to the seaport you were paying for his $46. These things are not right.

She said after meeting with key stakeholders, a decision was made on the  the fare hike.

“…Effective tomorrow…, taxi operators in this country, in particular those at the airport will for the first time in 15 years be given the opportunity to have a significant fare increase across the board,” she added.

Tomorrow, operators and the public will know the exact adjustments in fares.