PPV operators rewarded for good conduct

Twenty cab and bus drivers who operate in St Catherine were recently rewarded by head of the Linstead Transportation Centre, Christopher Angus for following the centre's rules.

Speaking with THE STAR, Angus said he saw the need to reward the drivers as not only are their services vital to the transportation industry, but they also make the work of the Transport Authority and police easier. The award ceremony was held on December 13.

"There is a huge congestion issue in Linstead because 90 per cent of the cab and bus drivers do not utilise the park when loading the vehicles. They use the roadway and as a result there is a constant build-up of traffic. However, there are about 10 per cent of the drivers who choose to obey and stay in the park and load," he said.

Angus said he aims to make the award ceremony an annual event and hopes it will boost other transport operators to follow the rules.

"Taxi drivers are under recognised but we have to recognise that on a daily basis, dozens of lives are in their hands. They are life preservers. Since the awards show, a lot of operators have been reaching out to me and telling me that they are hoping that they will be recognised next year. I believe it will let more drivers use the bus park," he said.

Oneil Godfrey, who plies the Linstead to Spanish Route route, said he is over the moon for the 'Best Attired' recognition he received. He said he has been transporting passengers for more than two decades and it is an honour to be recognised for his services.

"Mi glad so till all now mi still a skin mi teeth. Mi never win anything when mi a go school so mi glad to win it as a big man now. Mi always try fi put myself together because mi carry all type a people. Mi make sure mi clean at all times because anno any and anybody mi ago carry. So if yuh dirty and smell bad, yuh can't come in my vehicle," he said.