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.
Join the Trinidad and Tobago WhatsApp update group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DKueX7ZV35626FbOsKBt03
Follow us on Instagram: @news.tringlobe
Trinidad and Tobago Emerges as CARICOMs Largest Financial Contributor, Other Member States Also Hold Significant
Keena Emmanuel, a St. Lucian national, disappeared from Arima Hospital.
Man Arrested After Violent Altercation with Police in Mayaro Leaves Two Officers Injured
Prominent Businessman Murdered in Domestic Dispute, Wife Detained
Man Robbed at Gunpoint at Salybia Beach; Assailant Remains at Large
Ketamine Queen Jasveen Sangha Sentenced to 15 Years for Actor Matthew Perrys Death