Cabinet to review PPV fare rise as Jamaica advances Labour Day recovery projects

Cabinet is scheduled to consider the remaining 16 per cent fare increase for public passenger vehicle operators when it meets on June 1, following talks on Monday between state officials and transport sector representatives. A 35 per cent adjustment was approved in 2023, but only 19 per cent was applied then, with the balance delayed because of inflation concerns.

Transport Minister Daryl Vaz said the Government has used its fuel pricing mechanism to absorb billions of dollars in fuel costs, easing pressure on operators and commuters during spikes in global oil prices. Finance Minister Fayval Williams said officials are weighing how to apply the outstanding increase while reducing the burden on consumers and the wider economy. Transport groups reportedly said they are not planning strike action now, though they remain concerned about higher operating expenses.

CARICOM has also raised alarm over worsening conflict in the Middle East, especially military activity affecting the Strait of Hormuz. In a release dated Monday, May 18, the regional bloc cited loss of life, threats to civilian infrastructure and instability in global markets. It warned that interruptions along the major shipping route are affecting energy supplies, trade and freight costs, with small import-dependent states likely to be hardest hit. CARICOM urged respect for international law, protection for vessels and seafarers, restored safe passage and immediate de-escalation.

The National Water Commission is carrying out upgrades and assessments of key water and sewerage systems to strengthen resilience, treatment capacity and service reliability. Acting president Kevin Kerr said work is under way in the corporate area, including downtown Kingston and Duhaney Park, to improve wastewater collection, treatment and safe environmental return. Studies are also being done on the Hermitage Dam for possible reconstruction and expansion, and on the pipeline from the Yallahs intake to the Mona Reservoir.

Labour Day 2026 will focus on repairing sports, early childhood and community facilities affected by Hurricane Melissa. Minister Olivia Grange announced that Lewistown Early Childhood Institution in St. Elizabeth and Sabina Park in Kingston are the two national projects. Labour Day will be observed on Monday, May 25, with wreath-laying on May 23 at Sam Sharpe Square and National Heroes Park, and a free gospel concert at Emancipation Park at 7:00 p.m.

Tax Administration Jamaica said the revised Environmental Protection Levy will not start until the required legislation is completed. The proposed rate increase from 0.5 per cent to 0.85 per cent was announced for May 1, but the current arrangements remain in place until an official implementation date is set.