National Department of Transport Director-General Mr George Mahlalela has said that on-going strikes by the taxi industry cannot be tolerated. The Director-General was responding to the latest two-day strike, which began today, Monday, 19 April 2010, by taxi operators in Durban. Thousands of Durban commuters were left stranded. It is believed taxi operators downed tools because they claimed metro police were harassing them.
“These on-going strikes by the taxi industry cannot be tolerated. If taxi operators have problems, why opt for strikes which affect ordinary commuters? As government, our doors have always been and will continue to remain open regarding any issue. However, these engagements should never affect the travel arrangements of commuters who want to go about their normal business of life.
“There are many channels of communication in government, including local, provincial and national government, through which issues may be resolved. It is totally unacceptable that the structures through which government engages with the taxi industry are not even aware of these strikes. There are also new structures continuously emerging in the taxi industry going against already-established structures.”
“These strikes are impacting negatively on commuters. Instead of strikes, we call upon the taxi industry to use appropriate channels for engagement. As government, we remain committed to engage with the taxi industry to resolve issues. However, the right of citizens to reliable and safe public transport remains paramount,” said the Director-General.
Issued by: Department of Transport
19 April 2010
