Shadow Minister of Transport Jamahl Simmons said Government needed to get a grip on the congestion issue but penalising car use wasn't the answer.

He said: "Traffic congestion has a tremendous impact on Bermudians.

"When we look at all the issues that accompany it including wasted time, wasted fuel, stress, frustration and even road rage it is a mistake for government to neglect this issue.

"We must recognise the failure of policy ideas in other jurisdictions that have attempted to force people out of their cars.

"We have become a society, which through our affluence has become accustomed to the convenience that having our own vehicles provides.

"Penalising car users isn't the answer."

Mr. Simmons suggested these measures:

Ensure the quality, affordability and convenience of public transportation are a competitive option for car users?

Develop ideas to make buses and ferries more affordable and convenient, especially for families and children

Ensure public transportation is reliable by working with workers and the union to minimise work stoppages and disruptions ?

Ensure transportation system is fully co-ordinated incorporating mini-buses and wherever possible taxis

Perhaps most importantly we need to take a critical look at our buses and ferries to identify and address the disincentives to various members of the community, including private school students

We should develop a strategy to introduce flexi-time and telecommuting, where appropriate, for government workers and develop incentives for private business to do the same.

He added: "These and many other ideas are ready to be taken up and implemented but, we need a government prepared to address the issue in a serious and forward thinking manner."