Red band maxis head for Palo Seco ‘lime’

FRESH from talks with Minister of National Security, Martin Joseph, yesterday,  maxi taxi drivers have opted for a “cool down” on Sunday at the Palo Seco Beach Camp in South Trinidad. It is really the fifth annual Family Day affair of the Maxi Taxi Association. Most red band maxis will be heading South with their families and friends for a day of fun. Victor George, president of the Association (Route 2) told Newsday they were as equally happy with the outcome of yesterday’s talks with the Minister, as they were on Wednesday when they held lengthy discussions with senior officers of the Police service. Both the Minister and Commissioner of Police, Trevor Paul, who were present at the meeting, re-assured the maxi drivers that everything possible would be done to make their jobs easier. George said Minister Joseph endorsed all that was promised by the senior police officers on Tuesday.

“The Minister said he himself will be keeping an eye on the situation where maxi drivers are seeking more Security in the performance of their jobs,” said George. Also present at yesterday’s meeting was junior National Security Minister, Fitzgerald Hinds. George said the Beach Camp “lime” makes for a combination of fun and reflection. But while the maxi drivers feel comfortable with the security measures being put in place for them, they are uncomfortable with other problems. “We find it difficult to meet with the Minister of Works and Transport, Franklyn Khan to discuss some City Gate problems. He cited some of the problems as the bad lighting system at the facility, lack of proper toilet facilities, pot holes at the City Gate compound and the fact that only one of the three “Smart Card” exit facilities is functioning.