Letter to The New Paper (TNP)- Govt should manage public transport

Raymond Anthony Fernando’s letter to The New Paper on the above matter is published today in TNP, page 27, Wed 12^th Dec 2012.

Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew has hinted that public transport fares may have to go up so that drivers can be given higher salaries. 

This is causing anxiety among those who are already worried sick over the cost of living.

SMRT makes millions of dollars in profits and its top executives are paid high salaries and bonuses.

The Government has often advised citizens to save for a rainy day.  Perhaps, if SMRT had done the same during the years of high profits, it may be able to pay its drivers more without raising fares.

Why should the public have to pay more instead?

Concerns about the rising transport costs may be one reason why some are reluctant to take up jobs far away from their homes.

Public transport needs to manage by the Government, like public health services.   

 

RAYMOND ANTHONY FERNANDO