The Ministry of Tourism is pleased to announce the hosting of a sensitization forum scheduled for Friday 16th August 2024. The forum will target tourism transport operators who have recently benefited from the H-TX Transition initiative which commenced in September of 2022.

Background

The decision by Cabinet to formally absorb H-plate operators into the TX system was fueled by the catastrophic loss of livelihoods during the COVID-19 pandemic, which revealed the high number of operators plying the trade without the appropriate license and Permit from the Department of Transport. After a series of stakeholder consultations and four (4) national sensitization forums held in 2022, a programme of absorption was implemented to finally deal with the longstanding issue of the proliferation of H-plates and unlicensed operators into the sector. Being sensitive to the livelihoods of operators, the Ministry of Tourism took the strategic approach of verifying the operations of individuals affected during the pandemic and committed to implementing a careful process of absorption which is now being concluded ahead of the next peak season. This initiative has resulted in the formal absorption of operators who have been issued with the correct license plates (TX) and now operate under the regulations and compliance requirement of the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act as well as the new Tourism Development Act, No. 1 of 2024. Some of these operators included existing TX holders who operated multiple vehicles with H-plates and those belonging to taxi associations.

About the Forum

The forum will focus on integrating these operators into the current policy environment and enhancing their awareness of the standards and legislation that govern the taxi sector. It will also allow for the participation of existing TX holders as part of the Ministry’s commitment to hosting refresher courses for longstanding operators.

This is a crucial step in ensuring that all taxi operators are fully aligned with the high standards required to maintain Saint Lucia’s status as a premier luxury destination ahead of the 2024 peak travel season. The event will provide comprehensive guidance on regulatory compliance, operational standards, and the critical role taxi drivers play in the tourism industry.

Key Objectives of the Forum include:

Policy Integration: The forum will guide these taxi drivers through the current policies and legal requirements, ensuring they are fully informed about the regulatory environment within which they operate.

Standards and Compliance: The discussion will emphasize the importance of adhering to established standards for vehicle maintenance, driver conduct, and customer service essential for sustaining the quality and reputation of the  tourism transportation service in Saint Lucia.

Awareness and Continuous Improvement: Participants will learn about upcoming training requirements and benefits such as vehicle concessions and access to continuous professional development opportunities designed to meet the evolving demands of the tourism industry.

Taxi drivers are essential ambassadors for Saint Lucia, often being the first and last points of contact for visitors. The Department of Tourism recognizes the importance of their role and is committed to ensuring that all taxi operators are well-prepared to deliver exceptional service.

In heralding the forum, the Minister for Tourism, Hon. Dr. Ernest Hilaire noted, “This forum represents our commitment to upholding the standards that make Saint Lucia a top choice for luxury travelers. By equipping our taxi drivers with current information and resources, we are ensuring that they continue to provide the high-quality service that our visitors expect and deserve.”

All taxi operators who have recently received their new license plates are strongly encouraged to attend this forum as it offers a vital opportunity to ensure their operations are fully compliant with the latest regulations and standards.

About the Department of Tourism:

The Department of Tourism is dedicated to supporting the growth and sustainability of Saint Lucia’s tourism sector through the principle of inclusion, the enforcement of policies, the establishment of standards, and the promotion of training programs that uphold the island’s reputation as a leading luxury destination.

For more information, please contact Timothy Ferdinand, Tourism Officer: 758-724-7108