motorists express concerns about the increase of toll rates

Rasbert Turner

Portmore Star Writer

A number persons affected by today's increase in toll rates have expressed concerns as to how long it will continue.

"The constant hike in toll rates has being digging a hole in the pockets of users each year. I don't know what to do," motorist Georgia Barry said.

Despite the users of the Portmore toll road being charged a slight increase, many are saying it is still putting a dent in their pockets. The toll has always been a concern for Portmore residents, many of whom declared it was oppressive, when the roadway was first opened.

"It's like we are paying twice for the house, we pay to and from work and each year it gets more expensive to live here," a resident of the municipality said.

Minister of Transport Mike Henry had revealed that the toll rates have to be adjusted according the contract between the government and the toll operators.

Henry said it was an improvement from the six- month adjustments that previously existed between the parties.

"We just have to continue paying. it is a very sad thing for us, but it's the reality of motorists, especially in Portmore," Michelle Newby, another motorists who uses the toll road, said.

There were others who told THE PORTMORE STAR the toll is a necessary ingredient for the growth of the municipality.

16-y-o girl missing

Sixteen-year-old Tamara Wheatley, of a Carless Drive address in Gregory Park, has been reported missing by her family since Thursday, June 30.

She is of brown complexion, medium build and about 152 centimetres (5 feet) tall.

Reports reaching THE PORTMORE STAR from the Caymanas police are that Tamara was last seen at home about 3:30 p.m. She has not been seen or heard from since. Her mode of dress is unknown at the time she went missing,

Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Tamara Wheatley is being asked to contact the Caymanas police at 988-1719, police 119 emergency number and the nearest police station.

Disaster-management symposium

The Portmore Municipal Council in collaboration with the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) will be hosting a disaster-management symposium today, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Portmore HEART Academy.

A release from the council said the objective of the symposium is to raise the awareness level of the residents to the risks associated with climate change as well as to strengthen their capacity to adapt to climate change.

The release said that the session will include health and welfare services, among others.

Lunches will be provided at no cost and transportation will be available for the elderly and disabled.

"Come out participate and be informed," the release urged.