MCW continues its efforts to prepare livery operators

Road Town, Tortola - With three training sessions and two tests completed, the Ministry of Communications and Works continues on its quest to prepare livery service operators for the enforcement of the Road Traffic Regulations 2009 on March 1, 2010.

“The reason why we have gone above and beyond in this capacity is to help make a seamless transition especially because the livery category is new and we want to assist individuals who have been operating for many years,” Minister for Communications and Works, Hon. Julian Fraser, RA said.

Since February 1, owners and operators of what is now classified as livery were given an opportunity to take part in special training sessions offered by the Ministry of Communications and Work to help assist drivers to obtain their livery permits.

“I am pleased to report that our training sessions have had a good response from the businesses,” Acting Deputy Secretary, Mrs. Myrna Ferdinand told the Department of Information and Public Relations. So far 37 persons have taken part in the training sessions and 20 have already taken the livery test. I am delighted to say that all passed with marks between 75-98,” Mrs. Ferdinand continued.  A mark of 70% is required to pass the test.

As training and testing continue, a sister island visit will be made to Virgin Gorda on February 10 where Mrs. Ferdinand will be training 20 plus persons over there.

Persons who are already operating as livery drivers and wish to take advantage of the training opportunities can call the Ministry of Communications and Works at 468-2183 to register.  The livery training courses will only be offered for a limited time.

Government is seeking the cooperation and support of all parties involved to make the transitions as smooth as possible. The livery category was introduced as part of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2009 which necessitates license plate transfers to the applicable categories. This is part of efforts by the ministry to provide efficient and accurate services in vehicle licensing matters and to enhance drivers’ safety in compliance with the road traffic legislation of the Territory.