Last week, we told you about the ongoing saga between the Belize Bus Association and Floralia. Floralia is the newest bus line in town and plans to expand its routes from the south to other parts of the country. And while the BBA says it doesn't mind the competition, its members believe that Floralia should get its own routes, rather than use those that have already been established.
Well, commuters disagree, since they say they've spent too long on hot, cramped, and broken down buses. They welcome the comfort Floralia provides, and the Minister of Transport agrees with them.
In the Facebook post, Rodwell Ferguson said, quote, "I am sorry the upgrade will have to come to these buses. The commuters deserve something better. The countdown to December 2022 begins when we must see the transformation begins or else, we give you enough time." End quote.
Ferguson also posted pictures sent to him by a commuter who complained about having to shift seats to avoid getting wet with rain.
The Minister emphasized that he has no investment in Floralia, but says that change must come. He also committed to upgrading the terminals and introducing a ticketing system to avoid the rush.
Back in November 2020, a ticketing system had been introduced at the terminals, but that seems to have fizzled out.
Additionally, you've heard the bus operators say that they are not being given the ten year road service permits, and with Floralia picking up their customers, they've complained about not making the same amount of revenue.
And the BBA also has a court case against Floralia to try and get the new bus line's permit quashed. Today, the Supreme Court handed down a decision permitting James Bus Line and the Belizean Bus Association to bring judicial review against the Transport Board and the Minister of Transport for their granting of road service permits to Floralia. Justice Chabot says, quote, "there is evidence that the statutory regime applicable to the granting of road service permits has been flouted. This Application raises important issues of transparency and fairness in the administration of the Belize public transportation system….This Court finds that the Applicants have demonstrated that they have an arguable case with a reasonable prospect of success."
We will continue to follow this case.
