VP reminds taxi operators of their vital role in tourism industry |13 October 2005

VP Belmont made this call Wednesday October 12 during a meeting with over 150 members of the Taxi Operators Association of Seychelles.

The meeting, held at the International Conference Centre, was called by the association to dialogue with the vice-president and other representatives of various government agencies on issues that concern the taxi industry.

According to a communiqué from the Department of Transport and Tourism, issues raised included the need to increase enforcement of taxi regulations, the need for more order and fairer competition in the various segments of the tourism industry, licensing requirements, taxation, road conditions and difficulty in replacing vehicles and keeping vehicles in good condition.

"There was also concern expressed on the apparent unfair competition which taxi operators were facing from tour operators and tour guides in the face of rising operating costs especially the high cost of insurance," the communiqué said.

The vice-president elaborated on the efforts that Government had made over the last year to revitalise the tourism industry and expressed his optimism for the future of the industry.

He highlighted the numerous hotel projects which were about to open, under construction or about to start construction which he said would bring added dynamism to the Seychelles tourism industry.

He also reminded the taxi operators that they had a vital role to play in this industry and that a successful future depended on their effort and contribution.

Representatives of the Transport & Tourism Department, Seychelles Licensing Authority, Ministry of Finance, and Seychelles Tourism Board were present to clarify issues and consider the concerns brought forward.