Vaz says 'every effort should be made not to politicise' school bus tour

Transport Minister Daryl Vaz is insisting that the current Rural School Bus tour is aimed at sensitising Jamaicans about the functionality and safety of the buses and should not be politicised.

Videos have surfaced online of the buses touring sections of Jamaica with persons wearing green shirts and waving green flags out the windows of the buses. Green is the party colour of the ruling Jamaica Labour Party.

The images have led to criticism that the buses are being used as part of the JLP's campaign for re-election.

In a statement to the media on Tuesday, Vaz said that "invariably during the current climate, the buses have attracted attention and excitement from supporters of both major political parties who have toured the buses across various constituencies."

"Despite the natural enthusiasm generated, I have strongly advised that every effort should be made not to politicise the bus tour. The buses are for all children and will ensure that parents save on transportation costs, regardless of their political persuasion. This Government does NOT engage in partisanship concerning our nation's children. It must be noted that that the buses are available to every Member of Parliament, including members of the Opposition who wish to sensitize communities to their utility and functionality," Vaz said.

He said given the "blatant lies spread by the Opposition about the viability of the buses", it is important that the ministry respond to requests from members of parliament for citizens to be sensitised about the buses.

He said he is disappointed that no member of the Opposition has engaged the Transport Ministry concerning sensitising constituents to the availability and functionality of the buses.

People's National Party President and Opposition Leader Mark Golding and Opposition Senator Peter Bunting have been vocal in their criticisms of the rural bus system, maintaining that the buses are old and unsuitable for Jamaica’s hilly terrain and pose a safety risk to students and pedestrians.

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