Opposition Leader Penny Beckles has launched a fierce critique of the Government’s recent traffic fine hike and related fiscal measures. Beckles accuses the administration of shirking transparency, and unfairly placing the financial burden on the public. She argues that Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, rather than understanding the purpose of demerit points, is using them as a tool to divert attention from policies driven by a need to increase revenue. Beckles asserts that these increases do not contribute to public safety, but are a means to plug budget deficits. She further criticised the 2025-2026 Budget for banking on inflated oil price projections, resulting in a revenue gap that’s now being filled by higher taxes and punitive fines. This, according to Beckles, contradicts the 2025 election campaign promises of relief and not increased penalties. With households already struggling with the cost of living, Beckles insists that families should not be burdened with sudden fee hikes without proper explanation or consultation. She urged the Prime Minister to review, reverse the measures and provide an honest account of the country’s finances. She concluded that the policies not only show a lack of regard for the wellbeing of law-abiding citizens, but also erode public trust.
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