The Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce has announced a reduction in the boat fare between Parika and Bartica from today.
According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) press release the fare will be $1,900 per crossing. This decision was taken after Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Manniram Prashad convened a meeting with President of the Bartica/Parika Speedboat Owners Association Christopher Bell and other members to discuss a reduction in the fare.

Prashad said while this initiative is welcomed, discussions are ongoing for the fare to revert to $1,800 prior to the rise in fuel prices earlier in the year.

However, the minister noted that the price of gasoline needs to be sorted out in Bartica as it is being sold at $860 at the Guyoil pump while around the country the price is $555. Prashad said he had contacted the managing director of Guyoil about the situation who committed to addressing it.

Prashad also praised the association for being cooperative and agreeing to a reduction; noting that “they have got the interest of the consumers at heart.”

Further, he said that the ministry is working with similar associations to regulate transportation fares.