Opposition Leader Mark Golding has chastised the government for granting the recent fare increase to public transport operators.

Speaking at a People’s National Party (PNP) Candidate Presentation Ceremony in Highgate, St. Mary on Sunday (October 22), Mr. Golding said school children and their parents are suffering because of the increase.

The 35% increase will be applied in two phases. On Sunday October 15, a 19% increase was effected. The second phase, a further increase of 16% will take effect in April 2024.

Mr. Golding said while transport operators undoubtedly needed an increase, the government could have cushioned the impact on citizens.

The Opposition Leader suggested several measures, that he said the government could  implement to ease the burden on citizens.