PHILIPSBURG:--- During a parliamentary meeting on November 13th focused on transportation, Member of Parliament (MP) Omar Ottley delivered a sharp critique, arguing that the discussion failed to address the core economic concerns of the nation's taxi drivers. He called for immediate, substantive action to improve their livelihoods, especially as the Christmas season approached.
MP Ottley began by drawing attention to the taxi drivers present at the meeting, stating they were not interested in political disputes but in practical solutions. "They're here to hear how we are going to improve their livelihood, how we are going to ensure that they can generate enough funds," he remarked. He expressed disappointment that "nothing of substance was brought up for these gentlemen and women" to give them hope for the upcoming tourism season.
The MP defended the practice of issuing licenses to older, more experienced drivers, describing them as "the pioneers of this country" who possess invaluable local knowledge. He connected this to the rising pension age, arguing that experienced drivers over 60 should not be forced into inactivity but should be supported.
A significant part of Ottley’s address focused on what he described as governmental inaction on a key piece of legislation designed to help transportation workers. As the former Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), he explained that a measure to provide insurance for sole proprietors, including taxi and bus drivers, had already passed most of the legislative hurdles.
He stated that the Council of Advice had rendered its final advice on the matter in November 2023, leaving only the final report to be prepared for parliamentary handling. Ottley claimed he had offered to help the current minister advance this and other "low-hanging fruits" but was rebuffed. "One of those low-hanging fruits... is sitting on the minister's desk since November 2023," he asserted.
MP Ottley declared his commitment to bringing the legislation to Parliament himself if the government fails to act, emphasizing his focus is on tangible results for the drivers. "I am here for the taxi drivers and bus drivers," he concluded. "And how can we better your life?"
