Prime Minister the Most Honourable Andrew Holness on the Disruption of the Public Transportation Service

I have been briefed by the Minister of National Security, the Commissioner of Police and the Minister of Transport on the situation concerning the public transportation system.

It is clear, that indiscipline on our roads has now reached a level where it is a threat to our economy and public order and safety.

I have directed the Minister of National Security and the security forces, to take firm action in this regard and to ensure that the incidents are thoroughly investigated and those responsible feel the full force of the law including those persons who misused social media to create panic in the wake of yesterday’s incidents; I have instructed the Ministry of National Security to investigate all instances of public mischief.

I wish to assure the drivers of the Jamaica Urban Transit Company, JUTC that the necessary measures will be in place to ensure their safety and security so they can continue to provide the public with the necessary transportation services.

I also wish to commend the Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch, of the police force, PSTEB for their swift response and the provision of service with limited resources.

My thanks also to the many taxi operators who continued to fulfil their responsibility to the public even amidst the disturbances.

I wish to express my sympathies to the families of the JUTC employee and the taxi driver who were killed.

The security forces and the Ministry of Transport have assured me that they have made all the necessary arrangements to ensure the transportation sector returns to normalcy.

SOURCE: JIS