The Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB) has strongly criticized the government for its decision to privatize the public transport sector, accusing it of neglecting its duty to provide essential services. The controversy stems from a Ministry of Transport and Works letter, signed by Permanent Secretary Jehu Wiltshire, which outlines plans to dissolve the Transport Board and transfer ownership of electric buses to former employees. The proposal includes severance packages for current workers, with ex-employees given priority to become owner-operators, supported by low-interest financing. The government also pledged to subsidize electricity costs for bus charging and partially fund battery replacements. CTUSAB expressed surprise and dismay at the lack of consultation with the Social Partnership, a key stakeholder group, labeling the move as disrespectful and a dereliction of responsibility. The union highlighted existing issues in the private transport sector, such as inconsistent service and limited operating hours, and urged the government to invest in expanding the public bus fleet and strengthening regulations. CTUSAB warned that focusing solely on profitability risks undermining public mobility, particularly for vulnerable groups. As an alternative, the union proposed a capacity-building program to enhance management, leverage technology, and optimize route planning using data-driven strategies.