Proposed Bus Fare Changes to Undergo 90-Day Review

Proposed changes to public bus fares in Antigua and Barbuda will undergo a 90-day review as the Government considers how to balance rising operating costs with the financial pressures facing commuters.

Cabinet agreed at its October 21 meeting to establish a committee to examine recommendations submitted by the Antigua and Barbuda Bus Association and the Ministry responsible for Transport.

The proposals include phased adjustments to standard bus fares, the introduction of fares for designated public holidays and changes to subsidised transportation arrangements for primary schoolchildren wearing their official uniforms.

The Cabinet report did not announce approval of new fares or provide proposed amounts.

According to the report, bus operators have been facing increased expenditure on fuel, vehicle maintenance, spare parts, insurance, labour and vehicle replacement. The Ministry’s submission acknowledged that these costs have placed growing pressure on operators under the existing fare structure.

However, the review must also consider the consequences for passengers who depend on public transportation to attend school, get to work and carry out daily activities.

Students, senior citizens and workers are among the groups whose circumstances will form part of the assessment.

The committee will also examine the Government’s spending on transportation subsidies and the long-term financial sustainability of the service.

The review places both affordability and reliability at the centre of the discussion. Any recommendations will need to address operators’ ability to maintain services while considering the additional burden fare increases could place on households.

Cabinet said the proposals from the Bus Association and the Ministry should receive careful consideration before further decisions are made.

The committee is required to submit its findings and recommendations within 90 days, after which Cabinet will determine the next steps.