Parents of primary schoolchildren in Antigua and Barbuda could face changes to their children’s transportation costs as Cabinet reviews existing bus fare subsidies amid proposals to increase public bus fares.
The review will examine current arrangements that provide subsidized transportation for primary schoolchildren wearing their official school uniforms.
However, Cabinet has not disclosed what changes are being considered, whether parents would be required to pay more or how much government assistance would remain available.
The issue forms part of a wider review of proposed public bus fare increases submitted by the Antigua and Barbuda Bus Association and the Ministry responsible for Transport.
Cabinet has appointed a committee to examine the proposals, taking into account the rising operating costs faced by bus operators and the potential financial impact on passengers, including schoolchildren.
Bus operators have cited increasing expenses for fuel, vehicle maintenance, spare parts, insurance, labour and vehicle replacement as reasons for seeking fare adjustments.
Any increase in transportation costs could place additional pressure on families, particularly households with several children who rely on public passenger buses to travel to and from school.
The review comes as the government continues to operate its free National School Bus System through the Antigua and Barbuda Transport Board, providing transportation for schoolchildren at no cost.
However, children who depend on regular public passenger buses could be affected by any changes to the existing subsidy arrangements.
The Cabinet-appointed committee has been given 90 days to submit its findings and recommendations.
No decision has yet been announced on increasing fares or changing the school transportation subsidies. Cabinet will consider the committee’s report before determining the way forward.
This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Schoolchildren’s Bus Fare Subsidies Under Review as Families Face Cost Pressures.