New minibus fare structures released

Aug 31, 2018 News

Government has released the new minibus fare structures, which come into effect from September 1.
Last evening, the Ministry of Business released the new structures, noting that all minibus operators are required by law to display the fare structure in their buses.
Following a meeting with the Ministry of Business, the United Minibus Union (UMU) increased all minibus fares by $20 from September 1.
With the new fare structure, a minibus journey to far-reaching destinations like Parika, East Bank Essequibo, commuters can pay as much as GY$320.
President of UMU, Eon Andrews Andrews had noted that fare structures would have to be posted on minibuses in keeping with the law to ensure that commuters are not exploited. “We will be circulating the new fare structure so that commuters will not be exploited. There are some instances where a ‘short drop’ is already $80 and $100. Those prices are adequate for ‘short drops’; they need not be increased, “Andrews emphasized.
“In the meantime, it must be reiterated that the increase is from September 1 so any imposition of increase to commuters before that is a violation and passengers are urged to report such incidents to the police.”
Andrews had explained that the cost of fuel is not the only factor behind the fare increase.
“We took into consideration a number of factors, including the cost of tyres, excise taxes, insurance, licensing fees and what would be a fair price for passengers to pay before deciding on the increase,” he explained. In its statement yesterday, the Ministry of Business assumed responsibility for drafting the new fare structure for the various zones and routes.
“It should be noted the Ministry of Business is hereby informing commuters of the new fare structures for the following zones: 31, 32, 40, 41, 42, 44, 46, 46, 47, and 48. We urge both operators and consumers to adhere to the new fare structure which will become effective on September 1, 2018,” the Ministry said.
“For the zones not listed, the Ministry is urging operators to contact the United Minibus Union (UMU) to make representation on their behalf. Contact can be made through its President, Mr. Eon Andrews on mobile number +592-612-1517.” the release added.