Route taxi operators want fare increase

A least one group representing thousands of  taxi operators is signalling that it's not ruling out a request for a fare increase as fuel prices continue their record climb.

The Route Taxi Association of  Jamaica, RTAJ, says consideration is being given to a new fare structure as its three thousand members are struggling to remain in business.

President of  the Association, Sophia Campbell says while fuel costs have been soaring, taxi fares have remained flat.

Miss Campbell says a decision is to be taken on whether to proceed with a request for a fare hike after Energy Minister Phillip Paulwell indicates how the Government intends to address the sharp rise in the cost of  fuel.

She declined to disclose the level of  increase the operators would seek if  there is no reprieve from the Government.

The prices for automotive fuel rose to a new record on Wednesday April 5.

The state-owned oil refinery Petrojam added another 1 dollar 97 cents to each litre of  E10-87 and E10-90 gasoline.