Transport Ministry Under Fire for Flip-Flop Policies

Is the Ministry of Transport making policy on the fly? That’s the question some are asking after a string of proposals sparked public backlash and quick revisions. First, there was pushback concerning the initial proposal for a national bus company, then broad motorcycle regulations drew criticism for being too vague. Now, changes to house transportation rules have stakeholders voicing strong opposition. Today’s meeting may soften the blow, possibly scrapping parts of the ban, but the debate raises a bigger issue: Are these policies being rushed without proper consultation? C.E.O. Chester Williams insists it’s about listening and adapting. But is reactive policymaking becoming the norm?

 

On the Phone: Chester Williams, C.E.O., Ministry of Transport

“We are not walking back on nothing. We are putting in place a system temporarily until we can discuss. We had that meeting this morning and even with the meeting we still have to wait for Cabinet approval in order for what we discussed to take effect. So it is not a matter of walking back, it is a matter of listening to the people who are going to be affected and make reasonable recommendation to Cabinet for their consideration. And in terms of the motorcycles, there is no walking back on the motorcycle issue. As I have said before the prime minister and his cabinet are working together to see how best the government can assist in that venture. The PM has made it clear that indeed there is the need for the training. So, I don’t understand where your walk back ideology is coming from, because that is not the case in either instance.”