Minibus Union pushes for uniforms policy to boost tourism

In a bid to enhance road safety and improve the experience for tourists, President of the United Minibus Union (UMU), Eon Andrews, has called on all minibus drivers under the union to consistently wear their uniforms. This initiative aims to address the ongoing issues of reckless driving, and other traffic-related problems that have long troubled the minibus industry.
Andrews pointed out that while many drivers under the union adhere to the uniform policy, some only wear them occasionally to avoid the expense of buying additional uniforms.

“Not all bus drivers and conductors are part of the union… we have had discussions with the American Chambers of Commerce that we are going to uniform our persons and we will have our dispatchers who are members of the union,” Andrews said. He added, “We will have to say to these tourists that when they go to the parks, seek to find these persons who have on the uniforms.”
He also expressed concerns about police officers accepting bribes and tolerating these violations, which undermines efforts to improve road safety. “We cannot enforce; we can only help to educate. There are police officers who don’t care a damn—they are looking for it. So, more or less, it is a social problem,” he explained.
A few years ago, the minibus union implemented a policy requiring uniforms for bus drivers and dispatchers. The union is also working to get more young people uniformed to reduce lawlessness and the daily challenges faced by passengers being pulled and tugged to board specific minibuses at various bus parks around Georgetown.
Andrews noted that many of these drivers and conductors are well-educated individuals from good backgrounds, but the dangerous and demeaning culture forces some to lower their standards to survive, which the union aims to change. Despite the challenges, the union’s goal is to eventually have every bus driver, dispatcher, and conductor in uniform.
President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Kester Huston, recently highlighted the crucial impact of road culture on tourism in Guyana. He expressed concerns that the current issues with speeding and reckless driving could deter tourists from visiting the country.
Huston emphasised that the experience tourists have while traveling on Guyana’s roads significantly influences their overall impression of the country. He called for a concerted effort from the government, law enforcement, and the private sector to tackle these problems effectively.
To create a safer and more welcoming environment for both residents and visitors, Huston recommended initiatives such as intensified road safety awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement of traffic laws. These measures aim to enhance road safety and make Guyana a more attractive destination for tourists. (G9)