Vaz stands by toll-rate increase

Information Minister Daryl Vaz is defending Cabinet's decision to approve an average $10 increase in the toll rates for two legs of Highway 2000, arguing the cost to motorists could have been far greater.

Vaz, who was speaking atthe weekly post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House yesterday, said based on the way the rates are calculated, the increase could have been more significant.

Yesterday, Vaz announced that Cabinet had approved increased toll rates for the Portmore and Spanish Town legs of Highway 2000.

For the Portmore Toll Plaza, the rate for Class-Two vehicles will move to $180, up from $170, while the rate for Class-Three vehicles will move to $350, up from $340.

The rate for Class-One vehicles will remain $120.

For the Spanish Town leg, the rate for Class-Two vehicles will move to $120, up from $110, while the rate for Class-Two vehicles will move to $230, up from $210.

The rate for Class-One vehicles will remain at $80.

According to Vaz, a 10 per cent discount for weekend rates will also be introduced.

The new rates take effect July 9.

Vaz said the new rates were advertised and time allowed for objection, as is required, but pointed out that no objections were raised.