—says Minister Manniram Prashad
Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Manniram Prashad has emphasized that the situation concerning strike action taken by route 44 minibuses is under control.
He made this announcement yesterday during a press conference convened at his South Road office in the city, where he sought to explain what is happening with the recent  strike action by bus operators. “The situation is totally under control right now, nobody is stranded, transportation is flowing smoothly and we are willing to meet with any group and to discuss with them what the government is doing,” Prashad assured.
He noted that most of the operators who have staged the action are not represented by any association and as such no formal complaint was raised.
Prashad explained, “The issue is that this ministry traditionally deals with the established minibus associations, the Guyana Public Transportation Association and the Guyana Minibus association.”
Prashad noted that there is no written agreement about a structured fare, but an understanding exists that the fares would not increase unless the price of gasoline goes beyond $1,000 per gallon.
He reminded that the government had adjusted the excise tax on fuel products to ensure that the price of gasoline does not exceed  $1,000, and only recently the administration took steps to reduce the excise tax on diesel from 20 to 15 percent, as a result of upward movement in the world market price for oil.
Continuing, Prashad revealed that to date he has not  been approached by the established mini bus associations to engage in any discussions on a hike in fares.
As a result he pointed out that only a handful of operators are getting together to disrupt the transportation service.
Prashad said, “I am willing to meet with persons to discuss the issue  and address their concerns; but as it stands nobody is stranded as reported in certain sections of the media.”
The minister however announced that after discussions with the Minister of Transport and Hydraulics, Robeson Benn, preparations are in place to provide transportation for stranded passengers if the situation on the East Coast should escalate.
Meanwhile, Minister Prashad reiterated that at this time there has been no increase in bus fares, a decision which has been upheld after a meeting with executives from the Guyana Public Transportation Association.
According to the minister, representatives from the association have agreed to stand by their previous arrangement which has been applicable over the years.
“If the price   of gas escalates, then a meeting will be held to discuss the situation further,” Prashad announced.