The Land Transport Authority of Fiji (LTA) is set to implement random drug testing for taxi drivers, similar to current breathalyser checks. LTA CEO Irimaia Rokosawa announced that the initiative follows consultations with the Fiji General Practitioners Association, highlighting the lack of availability of drug testing kits at local practitioners.
One challenge faced by LTA in rolling out this drug testing system is the ability of offenders to easily evade detection by abstaining from drugs for two weeks. To enhance testing accuracy, a hair sample test is also being considered, despite concerns it may infringe on personal privacy.
Rokosawa indicated that the LTA would work alongside the government in budget discussions to acquire the necessary drug testing kits. These kits will enable quick results regarding drug use among drivers. Once available, the kits will be handed over to the Fiji Police Force, which has the authority to make arrests, while the LTA can only issue Temporary Infringement Notices.
Taxi permit holders may also implement their own drug testing protocols to ensure that drivers are free from drugs as a minimum employment requirement. This allows for immediate testing to certify drivers’ compliance.
Rokosawa believes that utilizing these drug testing kits, which have proven effective in New Zealand and Australia, could lead to similar successes in Fiji. Labasa Taxi Association secretary Sujit Sharma supports the initiative, suggesting it may decrease drug use among drivers and pledging cooperation with police in addressing drug-related tips concerning taxi drivers.
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