On the heels of a disclosure that the new taxi rates will be ready by the next tourist season, some taxi drivers are irate that the implementation of the Taxi Tariff Amendment continues to be delayed and believe that the issue is not given the attention it deserves.

During a statement in the House of Assembly last Thursday, Minister for Communication and Works Julian Fraser said the amendment of the tariff remains a high priority for Government. He noted that the administration will regularise the costs of taking a taxi throughout the Virgin Islands with the aim of bringing about some consistency and transparency.

The minister had noted that meetings were already held with taxi operators’, interest groups, the BVI Tourist Board and the Ministry of Communications and Works. He expressed the hope that the broad-based involvement of all stakeholders would realise the full support of all concerned.

He further disclosed that several public meetings will be scheduled to cement the proposal, but the goal is to have the rates in effect by next tourist season.

“I think the fare should be regularised, nobody should be overcharging or undercharging anybody,” said one taxi driver.

Another driver said he cannot wait for the new fare to Cane Garden Bay Beach which currently stands at $6 per person. Taxi operators have recommended $8 to Cane Garden Bay Beach.

Loneley Brewley has been taxiing for over 40 years and said the changes have been taking too long to come.

Brewley said all the new systems that they put in place for taxi drivers, for him personally are too much to ask for from taxi drivers.

Brewley and other taxi drivers expressed their constant problem with fellow drivers who tend to lessen their fares to attract tourists or to “take away” tourists that were already pursued by other drivers. He and the other drivers believe that the new rates which will be visible in every taxi will help to resolve that issue.

“We can sit and talk all we can, but if Government does not take it seriously then we will not get anywhere,” said another driver.

He disclosed that it was between November and December last year that the new proposal for the rate changes was submitted to Government and as far as he knew, they had no problem with what was proposed.

He noted that the taxi stands seem to be the only thing being regulated and it will be equally important to also regulate the other services including car dealerships.

The taxi driver recommended the implementation of a Taxi Commission which will govern all aspects of taxiing in the Territory. He noted that such a commission can police taxi drivers and also act as a lobbying agent for them. He also noted that many of the issues with taxi fares and treatment of tourists can be handled by a commission.

In addition, the taxi driver said among the things that needs to be changed to help enhance the service is the upgrading and rehabilitation of tourist sites.

He also noted that taxi drivers are willing to encourage tourists to divert from Cane Garden Bay during their tours, but it’s the only beach on Tortola with adequate facilities and recreational activities demanded by tourists.

He noted that Brandywine Bay, while it’s a good location, it can be transformed into a jet skiing haven for tourists with other recreational and social activities available for tourists.

Many of the drivers, who agreed to give their views, said they have expressed these sentiments to the relevant authorities, but their views seem to have fallen on deaf ears. Meanwhile, the grace period for the Road Traffic Regulations 2009, which became effective on August 31, 2009, will come to an end on February 28.

Government launched a campaign to educate the public on the requirements of the regulations, and most immediately, the changing of the various licence plates.

Beginning March 1, persons driving with unauthorised CM plates will be subjected to a fine of up to $500. According to Minister Fraser, to date, over 1400 vehicles are now in compliance with the law.

The minister also disclosed that that his ministry is about to embark on the erection of 100 bus stop signs to identify the bus routes throughout the island of Tortola.

Taxi drivers have also expressed their opinion against the omission of “Nature’s Little Secret” from their license plate. The Minister stated that they are in the process of addressing that issue.

“I am convinced that most of the apprehension towards this new policy has everything to do with lack of familiarity, and nothing to do with the reality of the benefits it offers.  This conclusion I came away with from a meeting held last Friday with an operator.  I am optimistic,” Minister Fraser had stated in the House of Assembly.

While noting that he is open for dialogue, the Minister encouraged persons to familiarise themselves with the new Road Traffic Regulations and obey the new laws.

“I feel that ample notice; time and in particular, opportunity has been given; there is no excuse for non-compliance,” he said.

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