Transport Minister, Dr. Omar Davies on Tuesday introduced a motion in Parliament, for the installation of tyre deflation devices on toll roads to deter the illegal use of some sections of these roads.
Davies, in presenting the motion, said this was seen as necessary, as several motorists, in order to avoid paying the toll, reverse on slip roads.
The tire deflation device is also known as traffic spikes, tire shredders, one-way traffic treadles, and stingers. It is used to impede or stop the movement of vehicles by puncturing their tires.
According Davies the illegal practice by motorists on the toll roads has resulted in crashes and so the need was highlighted and discussed with stakeholders.
His Opposition counterpart and Member of Parliament for North Central, St. Andrew, Karl Samuda, pointed out that Davies was seeking to make legislative change for a private entity. However, Everard Warmington, the Opposition MP for South West St. Catherine disagreed with Samuda, saying that if it is in the public's interest then it did not matter if the road was privately owned.
Warmington highlighted the fact that the toll road had not been Gazetted, therefore, he argued, it was illegal for police to ticket motorists for any traffic offence committed on the road.
In response, Davies said the issue of gazetting the road would have to be examined.
In the end the resolution was passed.
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