MINISTER of Transport Daryl Vaz has given the clearest indication yet that the Government might delay the planned reintroduction of the demerit points system.

In June Vaz announced that the demerit points system under the Road Traffic Act, 2018, and Road Traffic Regulations, 2022, would take effect on October 1.

“It is important to note that implementation of the demerit points system was previously suspended to provide additional time for compliance. That period is now ending. Effective September 30, 2026, the suspension will cease, and from October 1, 2026, the system will be fully operational, and a zero-tolerance approach will be adopted towards traffic violations, particularly those that endanger lives and undermine road safety,” Vaz said then.

But in a media release on Monday, Vaz said the Government has taken note of the ongoing public discourse surrounding the Road Traffic Act, particularly the implementation of the demerit points system, including recent comments from members of the Opposition People’s National Party and other stakeholders.

“We welcome constructive contributions to this important national conversation and recognise that several of the issues raised warrant careful consideration,” said Vaz.

“A dedicated working team comprising all relevant ministries and agencies has been meeting regularly throughout July and will continue to undertake this review. Their preliminary report, due in September, will provide the foundation for the Government’s final decisions, including, if necessary, the establishment of a revised implementation date that is in the best interest of the Jamaican people.“

Vaz said the Government remains committed to ensuring that any policy or legislative action relating to the Road Traffic Act is guided by sound legal analysis, established precedent, and the overarching objective of improving road safety while ensuring fairness in the administration of the law.

“Accordingly, I have directed that a comprehensive review be undertaken of all matters relating to the implementation of the Road Traffic Act, including issues concerning outstanding traffic tickets, the demerit points system, and the legal and policy implications of any proposed amendments. This review will include extensive consultations with the relevant stakeholders, including the judiciary and other key institutions, to ensure that the Government’s position is legally sound, practical, and in the best interest of the Jamaican people,” said Vaz as he argued that good policy is never made in haste.

“It is built through consultation with important stakeholders, strengthened by collaboration with technical experts, informed by consensus for the greater good, and sustained through clear communication with a clear goal. Those four Cs have guided this Government from the beginning, and they will continue to guide every decision we make on the Road Traffic Act.”

The transport minister said calls for an “amnesty” in relation to outstanding traffic matters have been heard, but any consideration of such a measure must be guided by the existing legal framework and established precedent, rather than differing interpretations of what an amnesty should entail.

“The Government will therefore approach this matter with the care, diligence and strategic consideration it deserves,” he said. “It would therefore be premature to make definitive pronouncements before this review has been completed. Once the review has concluded, the Government will outline a clear and comprehensive position, including any legislative or policy changes that may be required,” added Vaz.

He argued that as this work continues the country must not lose sight of the reality on our roads.

“Between April and June 2026, Jamaica recorded 75 fatal crashes, resulting in 83 deaths. Speeding remained the leading contributing factor, accounting for 24 per cent of these fatalities. These statistics are a sobering reminder that the Road Traffic Act is first and foremost about saving lives,” he said.