Taxi drivers to discuss becoming self-regulated

Drivers and operators met with the Taxi Authority Review Committee for the first time last Thursday at Warwick Workman’s Club to talk about the benefits a Taxi Authority could bring to the island.

The second meeting will take place at Clearwater Middle School tomorrow evening at 7pm.

The forum will give drivers the chance to address the committee on the big issues affecting the profession such as GPS and mini-buses.

The Taxi Authority Review Committee was set up by Transport Minster Terry Lister to look at establishing a Taxi Authority.

The body would assume responsibility for the island’s 600 cabs and take over the role of the Public Service Licensing Board.

The committee, which is chaired by Neville Tyrrell, will consider the scope of the new authority and review the benefits of such a body.

It will also include MP Lovitta Foggo and taxi owners Owen Darrell and Irving Butterfield.

When unveiling the committee Mr. Lister said: “The committee will look at legislation and policy, dispatch companies, insurance issues and so on.

“Once the committee’s work is done and the required changes put in place, I hope not to revisit this subject for many years.

“I realize at times the debate will be heated but we need to rise above personal issues and do what is right for the greater good.”

The committee will provide a report to Mr. Lister with a list of recommendations on April 30.