By Rasbert Turner, Gleaner WriterOLD HARBOUR, St. Catherine:
TAXI MEN attending Friday's meeting of the National Association of Taxi Operators (NATO) at Ascot Hall, Old Harbour, raised concerns about the stigma being attached to drivers in the area, as a result of the abduction and killing of 12-year-old Janealle Blair in July.
One taxi operator, Sylvester Thompson, cried openly. He expressed his sympathy and offered his condolences to the family and said he hoped the police would soon bring the culprit to justice. His sentiments were echoed by others attending the meeting.
The general secretary of the association, Egeton Newman, who chaired the meeting, spoke passionately about the negative image that is being painted of legally operated taxis, in general, and those operating in Old Harbour, in particular.
Mr. Newman implored the operators to give their full support to the police in helping them to bring to justice those responsible for the killing of Janealle. He also urged them to have their vehicles properly marked, to wear uniforms and liaise with the police and the Transport Authority.
On the matter of parking area for taxi operators in Old Harbour, Mr. Newman said that an area has been identified and discussions are being held with the relevant authorities to purchase the property.
In response, Assistant Superintendent of Police in charge of the Old Harbour police station, Anthony McLaughlin, has said that the problem of 'roboting' has to be rooted out of the system.
He said that this could only be achieved by first sensitising the students to the dangers of taking illegally operated taxis. The police, he said, will be doing their part in maintaining a strong presence in the area.
