It is time to take decisive action to rid Barbados of the ZR and minibus culture, as well as to repeal legislation allowing for the decriminalisation of small amounts of cannabis.
These proclamations were made by the General Secretary of the Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB), Dennis de Peiza during its monthly media briefing yesterday at the Barbados Union of Teachers headquarters in Merryhill, St Michael.
“The Congress holds the view that there needs to be a holistic approach taken to arrest the prevalent criminal activity, gun violence and social disorder. This includes bringing an end to the use of small quantities of marijuana, especially in public spaces and on public transport. That legislation needs to be repealed and get this nuisance of marijuana smoking, which is causing the public much concern, off the radar.
“It is also CTUSAB’s view that every effort ought to be made to rid the nation of the minibus and ZR culture, which showcases acts of indiscipline, rowdyism and disrespect for law and order,” he said.
De Peiza added that it was not the Congress’ intention to destroy public transport but stressed there was a need to regulate and manage it. (CA)
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Spot on Sir.
Last year I was physically assaulted by the driver of a Route 11 ZR and thrown off the van onto River Road because I would not change my seat to the back of the van. At that time, I was 74 years old and have a hard time getting out of the back of a crowded van. Strangely and luckily, I was not badly hurt and the van zoomed off leaving me lying on the road!
I reported it to the police, but I never heard back from them.
I really don’t think the police care. A ride on any ZR is risking your life with their reckless stunt-driving, as well as being accosted with constant loud, vulgar music. These drivers frequently go off-route to get past traffic and sometimes refuse to even take you to your stop because they want to take “short cuts”.
There are many laws and rules that apply to these route taxis, however what good is any law if it is never enforced? The lawlessness that these drivers are complaining about is the environment and the culture of the ZR that they themselves condone and promote.