The Belize Bus Association (BBA) says it was never trying to stop the Public Transportation Investment Bill, but was instead seeking amendments to ensure that independent bus operators and the National Bus Company (NBC) were included in the legislation.
BBA President Froylan Gilharry says the association wanted greater clarity, transparency and financial scrutiny in the proposed legislation to protect the interests of all operators.
“BBA at no time was trying to stop the bill. What we were definitely trying to do was seeking a modification so that all bus owners, the National Bus Company and independent bus owners … be included in the legislation of that bill,” Gilharry said.
The BBA’s comments come after the association wrote to the Senate on November 5, requesting a closed-door meeting before lawmakers proceeded with the final vote on the Public Transportation Investment Bill. The association wanted senators to consider its concerns about the legislation, but the request was not granted.
Gilharry also rejected suggestions that the BBA’s position was politically motivated, maintaining that its objective was to protect the interests of bus operators and commuters.
“We want to make certain that we continue to provide the best transportation possible that we can afford financially, and that it will always be in the best interest of the commuters and of the country,” Gilharry said.
The BBA says it will continue engaging government and other stakeholders as it prepares to present its own transportation proposal and seeks the same benefits available to NBC.
Senate Approves Transport Bill, NBC Secures Southern Corridor
