Fiji’s Minister for Transport, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, has voiced strong support for implementing drug testing for drivers, describing it as a crucial step forward for public safety. In a recent media engagement, he underscored that testing should be mandatory or conducted randomly by the Lands Transport Authority (LTA) to enhance road safety.
Tuisawau remarked, “This needs to happen through various stages, be it during the driving test or while in driving school. There is definitely a need for random testing in collaboration with enforcement agencies like the police to enhance road safety.” He expressed concern over the increasing drug use and its dangerous implications for driving, advocating that the proposed measures would help keep impaired drivers off the streets.
He also pointed out that speeding, often correlated with drug abuse, is a significant contributor to road accidents in Fiji. “Data suggests that some accidents stem from excessive speed, influenced by drug use and reckless behavior,” Tuisawau stated, emphasizing the need for stringent measures to tackle these challenges.
This initiative echoes previous discussions from last year, where the LTA considered mandatory drug testing for both existing and new drivers, showcasing a commitment to improved road safety. The push also aligns with ongoing efforts in the transport sector, particularly in the taxi industry, where the LTA is exploring random drug testing similar to breathalyser tests. Industry stakeholders, including the Labasa Taxi Association, have expressed hope that such initiatives could diminish drug use among drivers, thus enhancing public safety in Fiji.
Overall, the advocacy for drug testing in Fiji represents a proactive approach to safeguarding the public and fostering accountability in the transportation sector. This future-oriented mindset could pave the way for safer roads and reinforce trust in public transport services, promoting a community-focused environment geared towards safety.
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