Laws support code of conduct for minibus operators – Union President

Jan 30, 2019 News

Even as the code of conduct for minibus operators is in its testing stages, President of the United Minibus Union, Eon Andrews, is quelling concerns over the need for suitable supporting legislation.
According to Andrews, the code which addresses issues of consumer concerns is drafted in part by the Ministry of Business.
“The issues that we are addressing in the code of conduct deals with consumer affairs, so it will be supported by the Consumers Act and there some other concerns which can be dealt with by the police. So, these operators can be charged and prosecuted based on the breaches they commit.”
“At present, some drivers have already begun wearing their uniforms. We are only in the testing stages.”
Earlier this month, the Ministry of Business released an infomercial outlining the operating guidelines in moving to implement a Code of Conduct for minibus operators.
The Ministry, in an information video posted on its Facebook page, highlighted several guidelines that minibus operators and other associated personnel must abide by, before noting that the full document would be published on its website at a later date.
Among those mentioned in the Ministry’s Public Service announcement were the prohibition of loud and offensive music, proper display of fare structure in the minibus, and prohibition of offensive language. Overloading, speeding, loud and vulgar music and harassment of any form is also prohibited.
These issues had seen an increase in outcries for a code of conduct by which these operators ought to conform.
Last year, the United Minibus Union presented the Ministry of Business with a draft code of conduct that is being analysed and taken into consideration.
Andrews has disclosed that the draft code of conduct presented to the union covers many relevant issues being faced by consumers in the aspects of general operation of drivers and conductors, licensing and compliance, consumer service, prohibitions and health and safety conditions provided for passengers in minibuses.
After agreement by both parties, the code of conduct will be mandatory to all minibus operators countrywide.
The code entails both drivers and conductors following all transportation-related laws and regulations. It also accentuates that their behaviour towards passengers should be without prejudice.
Further into the code, emphasis is also placed on fair and proper treatment of persons with disabilities, women, children and the elderly.
The code of conduct draft also proposes much needed training being criteria for new operators (drivers and conductors) and upon the renewing of their licences.
Under prohibitions, the code posts that operators should not; refuse to stop at areas that are allotted as bus stops, attach any sign that would offend any group or individual inside or outside the mini bus.
However, in relation to health and safety, the draft suggests that buses should be kept clean and tidy at all times and that drivers should perform a daily examination on the bus engine, brakes, and other peripheral parts.

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