Strike action by north/south maxi-taxi drivers failed to affect the commuting public in San Fernando yesterday, as they made full use of PTSC buses, the water taxis and regular route taxi services. According to secretary of the San Fernando/Point Fortin Taxi Association, Anthony Clarke, at around 4 am, a few maxi drivers were seen on the Port-of-Spain stand at King's Wharf, picking up passengers. However, by 6 am there were no passengers and only one driver on the stand.
Most commuters used PTSC's regular bus service with the $6 fare, while some opted for the deluxe coaches at a cost of $10. By 6.30 am, five buses had left San Fernando filled to capacity, the first having left at 4.40 am. Bus driver Lochan Rampersad said by 7 am, the deluxe coaches had made seven trips to Port-of-Spain. "The strike didn't seem to affect the public at all because many people decided the bus was the better way to go," Rampersad said.
A PTSC official said there was a 25 per cent increase in passengers, compared to regular days. "This strike is a blessing in disguise because more people now realise how nice it is to go to Port-of-Spain on the buses," the official said. At the regular bus station, only 15 passengers were lined up awaiting the 6.30 am bus. One passenger, Amos Cruickshank, said: "What the maxi drivers tried to do was to inconvenience the passengers. It is inhumane but they have to realise that PH drivers provide a service. We are happy to have the buses."
Sue Singh, of Princes Town, said she waited for ten minutes to get a bus. "It was a bit of a delay because normally I get a bus as soon as I get here but I think the bus service is really good. I also support the legalising of PH drivers because in the rural areas people need them," she added. Meanwhile, at Lady Hailes Avenue, there were only four people waiting for the 7 am water taxi. Anthony Mitchell, who sells close to the ferry harbour, said there had not been an influx of passengers.
"Normally at his hour (6.45 am) the car park does be full of people, but it is almost full. I don't think the strike affected the public as expected" Mitchell said. One north/south maxi driver, David Browne, who continued to work yesterday said he did not support the strike.He said he did not have a problem with the PH drivers and felt the shutdown would work against his colleagues.
