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Airport taxi drivers contemplate action as concerns increase over new system

Nov 04, 2013 News

Taxi drivers operating at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Timehri, are contemplating their next move against what they say is “bullyism” in relation to new Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) being imposed.
Several taxi drivers expressed dissatisfaction with the new measures which they say will have a negative impact on their smooth operations.
Early last month, airport management, in a bid to improve safety and operating procedures, announced several changes.
The operators said, however, that without proper consultation and representation, they are being forced to adhere to rules that are not in their best interests.
The disgruntled drivers said that for more than five years, they have been operating without a taxi association, since the airport management had it dismantled.
They said from Tuesday, November 5, a strict rotation system among other things will be implemented.
The drivers said that they are being asked to work in groups, while no outside jobs are being permitted. The drivers said that as contracted workers with no benefits or representation, any rules implemented by the airport should reflect the views of the operators.
Drivers argued that they are being ordered to stay away from the arrival section: “We have to park and wait under a big tree whether rain or sun.”
The drivers continued that they are also being ordered to leave the job at age 60, despite having to pay a monthly operation fee of $6,500. The drivers argued further that with all the new implementations, the airport has failed to secure a favourable work environment since they are constantly competing with ‘pirates’, and have been functioning without a taxi dispatcher for the past four years. The drivers added that acceptance of special customers and outside jobs are now being met with penalties.
According to a letter to the drivers dated October 30, airport management said that the dispatch of vehicles is now based on a turn system and passengers wishing to travel with a particular driver would have to wait until it is that driver’s turn. No soliciting of passengers is permitted, in any form.
According to the letter, the first breach will be met with two weeks’ suspension while a driver will be dismissed for a second breach.

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