The Land Transport Authority of Fiji (LTA) is set to implement random drug testing for taxi drivers, following the procurement of illicit drug testing kits. Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa announced that these tests will be conducted similarly to breathalyzer checks.
Rokosawa noted the challenge of limited availability of drug test kits across general practitioners in Fiji, as confirmed by consultations with the Fiji General Practitioners Association. This has delayed the introduction of a reliable system to monitor drug use among drivers of public service vehicles.
Another hurdle in drug testing is that an offender who abstains from drug use for two weeks could pass the test. To ensure accuracy, a hair test option has been considered, though it raises concerns regarding personal privacy and space, as it requires a significant amount of hair from subjects.
Rokosawa stated that discussions with the government regarding budget proposals for acquiring the drug test kits are underway. The implementation of these tests would enhance the efficiency of identifying drug consumption among drivers.
Once the drug test kits are received, they will be handed over to the Fiji Police Force, which holds the authority to arrest individuals, while the LTA is limited to issuing Transport Infringement Notices (TINs). Taxi permit holders may establish their own drug testing protocols, enabling them to ensure that drivers are free from the influence of drugs.
Rokosawa mentioned that similar drug testing practices have been successful in New Zealand and Australia, and there is optimism that they can be effectively applied in Fiji as well. Sujit Sharma, secretary of the Labasa Taxi Association, endorsed the initiative, asserting it would help reduce drug use among drivers and promising to support police efforts in addressing drug-related issues within the taxi community.
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