The Land Transport Authority of Fiji (LTA) is set to implement random drug testing for taxi drivers, akin to existing breathalyser tests. LTA’s Chief Executive Officer, Irimaia Rokosawa, expressed the authority’s commitment to ensuring road safety and the wellbeing of the public by targeting illicit drug use among drivers.
Rokosawa highlighted the initial challenges the LTA faced, including the limited availability of drug test kits across general practitioners in Fiji, which has hindered swift implementation of the new initiative. He also pointed out that current offenders could manipulate the system if they refrained from drug use for a short period before testing, which raises concerns about the reliability of standard tests.
To combat this issue, LTA is considering the implementation of hair tests to ensure more accurate results; however, this method may face public resistance due to privacy concerns. The LTA plans to collaborate with the government for funding to acquire the test kits, which aim to deliver immediate results regarding a driver’s drug use.
Once the kits are procured, they will be handed over to the Fiji Police Force since they hold the authority to arrest offenders. Taxi permit holders will also be encouraged to establish their own drug testing requirements for their drivers to maintain a drug-free workforce.
The idea has been positively received within the community, with Labasa Taxi Association Secretary Sujit Sharma advocating for the testing initiative, asserting that it could lead to a decrease in substance abuse among drivers. He expressed readiness to assist the police by providing information related to any taxi drivers suspected of drug involvement, emphasizing the need for decisive action against drug use within the industry.
This initiative marks a significant step towards fostering a safer transportation environment in Fiji, reflecting a growing commitment to enhance public safety and health standards. As organizations collaborate on this undertaking, there is hope that it will lead to not only improved accountability but also a more responsible driving culture among professionals.
Overall, the introduction of these drug tests is an encouraging development that seeks to ensure safer roads for everyone in Fiji.
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