Minister Radegonde meets the Seychelles Taxi Operators Association |03 September 2021

The meeting between Minister Radegonde and the executive committee of the STOA (Photo: Thomas Meriton)

As it has been previously the case, the main constraints of the local licenced taxi drivers is that they are still being robbed of their daily bread by some well-connected people who are receiving the support from wealthy individuals and in some cases various hotels’ executives.

The above was again highlighted yesterday during a meeting between Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Sylvestre Radegonde and the executive committee of the Seychelles Taxi Operators Association (STOA).

Held at the Botanical House at Mont Fleuri, the meeting which was Minister Radegonde’s first dialogue with the association, was the opportunity for the members to raise their concerns and bring forward proposals regarding the difficulties encountered in their field of work.

Chairman Frank kilindo, who was being accompanied by vice-chairman Antoine Sinon, executive committee member Michael Adela, Camille Magnan (South Mahé representative), Terrence Esparon (North Mahé representative) and Elias Radegonde (La Digue representative) said that the incidents which are happening mainly at the airport and passenger boat terminal are unfair, while the impact on their businesses is huge.

Also in attendance were principal secretary in the department of Land Transport Patrick Andre, principal secretary for Tourism Sherin Francis, representatives of the Seychelles Licensing Authority (SLA) and the Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA).

Mr Kilindo once again pointed  out that vehicles without a licence are picking up clients, or making transfers as it is more commonly known in the taxi business, and this, he said, is unjust since the taxi operators are paying a licence and especially with the difficult situation due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

He explained that other than corruption, involving big hotels, their business is also being threatened by tour operators, as well tour guide companies who are still being tolerated through their malpractice.

This, the STOA chairman said, encourages a small minority of operators to overcharge their clients since they are not guaranteed a second trip within 24 hours.

To deal with the situation of overpricing, Mr kilindo said they have already proposed a pricelist and according to PS Andre, they are finalising the last details before it will be put into effect by September 15.

Another issue raised was regarding taxi bays or ranks at some hotels which are being restricted, or not permitted at all in some cases.

It is to note that it is compulsory for hotels to have at least two bays or more, depending on the size of the establishment.

It was also agreed during yesterday’s meeting that a system of quota will soon be introduced for the number of taxi licences issued.

There is equally a disciplinary committee which will be put into place by the ministry to deal with taxi operators who breach any terms of contracts, or ethics of the job.

Regarding services at the international airport, the STOA has requested for better working conditions, including a shelter for the operators while waiting for clients, while the SCAA which at the moment provides 40 slots for the taxi operators has vouched to enter into a better working relationship with the operators.

As for La Digue, it was pointed out that the sudden increase in the number of club cars, or buggies is creating a lot of destructions for the operators of the island.

After listening to various concerns raised by the STOA, Minister Radegonde has given his commitment to take up the matters at hand as soon as possible as they have a direct impact on the local tourism industry which is still convalescing from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

He said firmer measures will be taken to protect the industry and all partners involved, while the visitors deserve value for their money through the quality of services.

Minister Radegonde added that all partners should work harder and be more committed towards attracting more quality visitors, instead of chasing them away and make bad publicity for the country.

He also commended the STOA for recent donation of equipment to the Ministry of Education, and this, he said, is the perfect example of how every sector of the society can support each other, especially in the current difficult time.

As a sign of his commitment towards the cause, Minister Radegonde has proposed a quarterly meeting with the STOA.

Giving his reaction on the meeting, Mr Kilindo said he is hopeful that things will change for the better and the commitment showed by Minister Radegonde is a sign of reassurance that the new administration is devoted to promoting the culture of hard work and honesty.

Roland Duval