This morning, the House of Representatives will reconvene in the parliament chamber to discuss various legislative measures proposed by the government, including the contentious Vehicles and Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill, 2025.
The aim is to increase the annual licensing fees for motor vehicle owners. This proposed increase has sparked significant public discourse, prompting the government to modify the initial fee structure in response to public concerns.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced that the proposed amendment will implement a $100 increase for motor cars such as sedans and compacts. In contrast, Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), commercial vehicles, and heavy-duty equipment will face a 40 percent hike in fees.
However, certain exemptions are included for taxis, buses, hearses, ambulances, and tractors.
Last week, a demonstration organized by supporters of the opposition United Progressive Party (UPP) took place outside the parliament building, protesting the planned fee increases.
Despite this opposition, PM Browne noted the overall acceptance among the public for the need to raise the fees, emphasizing that the additional revenue will be directed toward urgent upgrades to the country’s road network.
“The people have been embracing the increase, recognizing that aside from the adjustment made for SUVs in 2005, there has been no increase in license fees for many years. An adjustment is long overdue, especially with the noble aim of financing the refurbishment of our nation’s roads,” Browne stated.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister assured the public that stringent measures would be implemented by both the lending institutions, ACB Caribbean and the Eastern Caribbean Amalgamated Bank, as well as the Ministry of Works, to ensure that the funds are utilized solely for their intended purpose.
“No one should be concerned about accountability, as systems will be established to maintain transparency in the use of these funds,” Browne concluded.
Which people that have been embracing the increase?
This seems targeted at people with SUV’s .
Why not 40% across the board.
So people like me have to pay the price to have the roads rehabilitated
40% is too much
Let’s see how the members of the opposition in Parliament handle this
lets see what happens from this