MP Lawrence Scott, The PLP Shadow Minister for Transport, says that he has it on good authority that representatives of the taxi owner/operators have been given the 'run-around' for months as they attempt to achieve something as simple as a meeting with an apparent inactive Minister. The 400 strong Bermuda Taxi Association's (BTA) support the establishment of a "Taxi Authority" - and the shadows ministers believes that they deserve the courtesy of a meeting with the Minister.
Shadow Minister Scott explained that a Taxi Authority is a positive step. "Its intent is to add structure, streamline and increase efficiency, improve customer service, cut waiting time for a taxi, and most important for the viability of the industry ... stimulate revenue streams, thereby generating more profits for the owner/operators.
Mr. Scott declared emphatically the BTA have every right to be frustrated with Minister Crockwell, the Transport Minister: "reportedly meetings have been scheduled then postponed - and not rescheduled. I believe an Authority represents the way forward in creating a level playing field for a significant percentage within the transportation industry".
The Shadow Minister concluded by observing that in a modern and dynamic economy we need to be able to provide medical benefits and at the very least the option of negotiating reduced rates and prices for mechanical parts and services for those in the public transportation service/industry; which is why we need in this instance an 'inactive Minister Crockwell to become Proactive', meet with and support the BTA in their desire to establish a "Taxi Authority".
