Minister Benn held discussions with Minibus Operators, Vendors and Other Stakeholders
Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn on Wednesday October 21, 2020, held the first in a series of discussions with Minibus Operators, Vendors, and other Stakeholders at the Saint Stanislaus College auditorium in Brickdam, to address the current traffic congestion and road safety issues at the Stabroek Market Square and of the mini-bus operators.
Present at the meeting were President-Eon Andrews and other members of the Minibus Association, Minibus Operators from the various route, Vendors, Deputy Mayor Alfred Mentor and Senior Engineer Kabila Hollingsworth of the Mayor and City Council, Engineer at Ministry of Public Works Kester Hinds and team, Commander of ‘A’ Division- Assistant Commissioner Simon Mc Bean and team, and Fire Chief, Mr. Marlon Gentle.
In his opening remarks, Minister Benn noted that the stakeholders’ engagement is geared towards seeking the continuous improvement of the transportation and congestion issues at the Stabroek Market Square. He stated that “it is not our fundamental interest in moving people. The fundamental interest is to bring order, optimal efficiency and safety out there.” Minister Benn also emphasised the need for minibus operators and passengers to wear masks in adherence to Covid-19 regulations. He added that tents will be placed at various bus parks to facilitate hand sanitising and the issuing of face masks.
Matters discussed with stakeholders at the meeting include the demarcating of the road lanes in the area, implementing a turn system at the bus parks, completing road maintenance work around the Stabroek area, and reinstalling barriers at the Kitty/Campbellville bus park, inter alia.
Several concerns were also raised by the stakeholder such as police relations with minibus operators, touts at the bus parks, “hot plate” buses, and the disrespect for Police Officers at many bus parks.
Minister Benn assured stakeholders that their concerns will be addressed as the Ministry continues its stakeholder engagement. He thanked all the stakeholders for their commitment and co-operation in working towards meaningful solutions to remedy the traffic congestion and road safety issues at the Stabroek Market Square and at Bus Route Parks.