Transport and Mining Minister Audley Shaw is scheduled to make his contribution to the sectoral debate in the House of Representatives today, but it is unclear if he will address a fare increase request from public transport operators.

No formal request is before the minister, but it is the intention of public passenger vehicle operators to make an official submission to the Government for a 110 per cent fare increase.

The desire for this sizeable increase had been floated earlier this year by bus and taxi operators who have been clamouring for an increase since a 15 per cent fare hike was granted in 2021.

President of the Transport Operators Development Sustainable Services Egeton Newman had first made this known in March.

In a release issued on Sunday, the national transportation steering committee, which is co-founded by Newman, announced the impending formal submission, noting that the request comes as a result of the steady rise in costs associated with running and maintaining transportation services across the country.

“The proposed fare increase aims to address various operational costs and service improvements necessary to enhance the quality of services to the public. The committee is of the view that a fare increase will enable the industry to continue providing safe, efficient, and reliable transportation that meets the needs of commuters,” the statement read.

Newman told the Jamaica Observer on Monday that the committee’s plan had been to make the submission before the Shaw speaks in the House today but the document was not yet complete, therefore the new plan was to do so by Wednesday or Thursday this week.

“We are trying to get some more feedback, in terms of completing the final draft. So that is why we have not [submitted] it yet,” he said.

According to Newman, the committee, which consists of “a strong team of transport persons across the island”, has been meeting with stakeholders to iron out the details of the submission which, he said, was requested by Shaw following discussions.

He said he therefore believes the formal request will be favourably considered by Shaw.

“Our [desire] is a 110 per cent increase, but we have to do our negotiations afterwards. So we are going to ask for 110 per cent. If I get 60 per cent, I will take it… that’s where we are now. But we are waiting for the final draft which could bring it maybe not up, but down,” he said.

In its release, the committee said it understands the implications of a fare increase on the public at this time, especially given the challenging economic environment.

It noted, however, that this adjustment is necessary but will not materialise until a comprehensive review of current transportation costs and the need to ensure sustainable and reliable transportation services for the public are realised.

“Our final submission will come after careful consideration and consultation with industry stakeholders. The steering committee recognises the impact that a fare increase may have on commuters and is committed to ensuring that the increase is reasonable to all members of the public, while covering the costs associated with providing the service,” the release said.

The committee said it is inviting feedback from the public on the matter. People can submit their comments via WhatsApp to 876- 561-4217.