Neither a chapter from the Quran nor the Bible!

“Lebanon Debate”

On Thursday, public car drivers blocked the road at the intersection of Saifi and Gemmayzeh in protest against the recent decision of the Minister of Public Works and Transport, who set new transportation fares. They were determined at 150,000 LBP for regular service and 75,000 LBP for vans. The protesters are urging a review of this decision, considering it unjust.

How did the Head of the Land and Transport Unions in Lebanon, Bassam Tlais, comment on these objections? Will the fares be reviewed?

Accordingly, Tlais confirmed, in an interview with Lebanon Debate, that "the fare rate is typically determined by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, not by the unions. However, Minister Hamia took the opinion of the unions into consideration, and we are thankful for this effort."

Addressing the drivers, he said that “this fare was issued 5 years after the crisis, hence, it is understandable that certain rates may have discrepancies.” Tlais stressed that "the fare rates are neither a chapter from the Quran nor the Bible. They are not written in stone and can be logically and reasonably modified while taking into account both the drivers' and citizens' needs.”

Tlais asked, "All drivers who perceive any injustice in the distances and prices that were set can submit their suggestions. The unions and ministry welcome input from all, and decisions will be made accordingly."

He stressed that "Minister Hamia will reconsider this fare after three months, whether it is to be adjusted upwards or downwards. He is committed to addressing any issues that may arise and has no hesitation in making necessary changes." stressing that "if there is any defect, it will stand with the driver, and this is his responsibility."

Head of the Land and Transport Unions in Lebanon added, "Overall, the new fare is acceptable, especially since it established a baseline of stability. This ensures that both citizens and drivers know in advance what to expect, especially after all the chaos that the sector suffered from the past years.”

Tlais asked "drivers to be careful and not return to the street, stressing that decisions will be made in the best interest of both public drivers and citizens."

ليس نصّاً من القرآن أو الإنجيل!"... قرار أشعل غضب هؤلاء"