PUBLIC BUS COMPANY LAUNCHES PROMOTIONAL CAMPAIGN

On Thursday, July 3 2008 the Jamaica Urban Transit Company launched a promotional campaign aim at increasing rider-ship.

Delivering the main address at the ceremony, Transport Minister Michael Henry, said the initiative is expected to make the JUTC stronger and of greater service to a wider volume of commuters. The promotion will see cash prizes being given to persons who use the bus and enter their used tickets for the drawings. The Minister said the ‘Ride & Win Summer Bling’ promotion presents the perfect opportunity for Jamaicans, particularly those within the Kingston Metropolitan Transport Region (KMTR) to register support for the bus company. The JUTC, he said represents an arm of the state’s overall thrust to bridge dignity, comfort, convenience and affordability in the public transportation experience; a vision gallantly pursued by the late chairman, Douglas Chambers.

Minister Henry urged Jamaicans who currently drive private motor vehicles to utilize the services of the JUTC, at least once per week as he does. This simple lifestyle change he said could have a critical social impact and not only show support for the bus company, but demonstrate a public conviction to order and discipline in society. It is also a viable alternative especially in the face of spiralling fuel cost.

Minister Henry urged those who normally ride on the buses to continue to do so with dignity and pride and assured the public that the service is constantly being evaluated to effect improvements. He said that buses are being repaired and refurbished to add to the fleet, and new ones are being ordered to significantly improve the fleet and overall service and reliability.