Heads of Government met in Special Session on Transportation in keeping with their quest to deliver adequate, fair, competitive, efficient transportation services at affordable costs.
Heads of Government recalled that the Multi-lateral Air Services Agreement (MASA) had been opened for signature in February 2018 and acknowledged the assent by all Member States to the MASA would give effect to the Community becoming a liberalised environment for CARICOM air carriers. In that regard they urged those Member States which had not done so, to sign and ratify the Agreement. Nine(9) countries have now signed the MASA allowing for provisional application.
Heads of Government agreed that Member States should undertake a review of their domestic taxes and other charges related to the air transportation sector, with a view to simplifying and streamlining the relevant tax structures and eliminating taxes which have a negative effect on the demand for and provision of air transportation services.
With respect to maritime travel, Heads of Government agreed to establish a joint private and public sector team to review the findings and recommendations of reports on a regional ferry service. The team has been requested to provide preliminary estimates for the implementation of a ferry services following discussions and negotiations with prospective ferry operators.
Heads of Government also agreed that the Directors of Maritime Affairs of each Member State should meet regularly with the intention of coordinating and presenting a holistic approach to addressing the maritime safety and security issues of the Community.
Heads of Government further agreed to restructure the Regional Transportation Commission (RTRC) and its programmes to enable greater efficiency.
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