Venus taxi drivers back in business
On November seventh, the taxi men operating out of the Venus Bus terminal received notice that the stand had been sold and they needed to vacate immediately. However, the drivers said they had not received sufficient notice and would not move their vehicles. The police were called in to ease tensions and eventually an uneasy truce was established. Today, when News Five returned to the taxi stand, things were a lot quieter.
Jacqueline Woods, Reporting
It was business as usual for the taxi men of Magazine Road. The drivers say thanks to Mayor David Fonseca, they are back in business. The drivers have moved from the Venus taxi stand but were given permission by Mayor Fonseca to operate just a stones throw away from the terminal. The drivers who have formed into a group called Mayflower Taxi Union are now located along Johnston Street near the Matron Roberts Health Clinic.
Orlando Burgess, Taxi Driver
“He helped by giving us a taxi stand right next door to Venus. And not only a taxi stand, he helped us to be a union. As it is we become stronger as a group of men working together.”
Jacqueline Woods
“So the working conditions have improved?”
Orlando Burgess
“Yes, well praise God yes it has improved since we spoke to the Mayor.”
Ramon Santiago, Taxi Driver
“Well the change didn’t matter much because I have my customers. So that didn’t affect me in anyway. It only affect me cause like I said we are a bit off the stand, but like everything resumed nicely and I’m back on the stand.”
Lester Rowland, Taxi Driver
“Well at first I thought I was going to be out of a job, but then like I said you know thank God for everything, that’s all I can say.”
Jacqueline Woods
“And business has been good?”
Lester Rowland
“Well not really good, but you can’t complain.?
Jacqueline Woods
?Better than nothing as they say.?
Lester Rowland
?Yes.”
The drivers say their motto is ?Taking You Safely Around Belize.? If you would like to reach the Mayflower Taxi Stand their telephone number is 75628.
