– looks at mandatory training for players in the sector

THE Ministry of Business is analysing the operational costs for minibus operators in the country and will be looking into the introduction of mandatory training in the sector.
The ministry in a release, said it met with the United Minibus Union (UMU) on Wednesday, July 4, 2018, to discuss the proposal put forward which called for an increase in fares, among other requests.

“It was agreed that the Ministry of Business will undertake an analysis of the cost of operating minibuses along the various licensed routes for the purpose of assessing the proposal for a fare increase.

“To this end, the United Minibus Union provided data on various aspects of the sector and agreed to provide additional data where necessary upon request,” the statement said.
UMU President Eon Andrews, said the matter of training was brought up by the union as it firmly believes that both bus drivers and conductors ought to be trained in the field of hospitality.

Andrews told the Guyana Chronicle that he advised that there be an attendance record kept for the trainings and an awarded certificate upon completion which will ensure that operators meet a higher standard.

The release also stated that discussions were had on the development of strategies to better enforce existing laws and regulations.

“The police can’t see six people in seat and just go around the corner. Somebody ought to monitor [these activities] and if there are rogue elements there must be something in place to monitor these kinds of occurrences,” Andrews said.

Overall, Andrews said the meeting was an extremely cordial one and he believes that Business Minister Dominic Gaskin has the best interest of minibus operators at heart.
“It was extremely cordial. I think he is a very respectful and understanding minister and he understands what minibus persons go through. It was a very good meeting, he seems to be on the ball,” Andrews added.

The UMU and the Business Ministry are set to meet again in the next month and the ministry has agreed to examine the matters put forward, making recommendations at Cabinet and to the union where necessary.