MAY PEN, Clarendon:
LIKE THEIR counterparts in other sections of the island, taxi drivers in Clarendon withdrew their services and some mounted roadblocks yesterday, in protest against the recent increases on fees and fines on motor vehicles and drivers.
When The Gleaner journeyed along some of the roads in the parish, scores of taxis were seen parked in various spots along the road, some drivers mounted roadblocks, while others took the time to sip their favourite drink and to play dominoes, or find other means of entertainment.
When asked the reason for the protest, one taxi driver said, "It too high man (the motor vehicle licence fee). That a murder man." He further stated that, "We know seh the country can't run without taxes, but the fees are too high. We just want a reduction in the fees, something we can work with." This was met with nods of approval from those who were on the scene.
The taxi drivers say they have no grouse with the increase in the fees for Breaches of the Road Traffic Act, but said that if the licence and other fees remain where they are, they will be forced to hike taxi fares. The cab drivers contend that with the increase in motor vehicle insurance, spare parts and continuous increases on gasolene, they cannot absorb those costs anymore. Passengers, they say, will have to bear some of the cost.
Meanwhile, some taxi drivers used the opportunity to vent their disgust with, what they described as, the "heavy handed appoach" of the police in May Pen. They claimed that the police officers were too quick to tow away their vehicles, which cost them $3,000 on each occasion. They alleged that some of these police officers are "paid" some of the fees charged by the wrecking company.
However, there were taxi drivers who thought that the increase was justified. "I am not a part of this demonstration as a taxi operator, because what the government is doing is they are just trying to curtail the accidents by hiking the fees," John said. Those taxi drivers who decided not to join the protest to carry passengers were reprimanded by those protesting. Some of the taxis were blocked and the passengers told to come out.
Some of the taxi drivers used large stones, tree branches and other debris to block the roads. However, some were quickly cleared by the police. The police say roadblocks were mounted in Mineral Heights, Howard Avenue, Chapelton Road, Sevens Road, Bucknor and Palmers Cross in May Pen and Crofts Hill, Brandon Hill and New Bowens.
The action of taxi drivers was met with mixed reactions from the public, as taxi stands remained empty and scores of people ventured out on foot. "What dem a strike for nuh mek no sense, cause it hard on the poor school pickney dem, and other people," Kerry lamented.
However, while she believes the action was a bit excessive, Marcia thought it was justified. "It justified, but they are not the only motorists who will have to pay the fees," Marcia said.
In the meantime, the taxi drivers have vowed to continue their protest, until an acceptable solution is reached.
