Cabbies say no to ‘Pari’ taxis

The Fiji Taxi Association (FTA) has joined disgruntled cabbies in opposing moves to legalise ‘Pari’ (pirate) taxis.

Pari taxis are private vehicles hired as taxis, at times because of unavailability of licensed taxis, especially in towns, western and Northern divisions, and rural areas.

Association president Ashwin Lal is calling for the removal of ‘Pari taxis.’

“If the licensed taxi has been given, or a licensed hire has been issued, it should operate under the law. These Pari taxis are not taxis. They’re just private cars being used illegally,” he said.

“The term ‘Pari’ has no official recognition. It’s just a private vehicle. You can’t just name something and expect it to become legal.”

He claimed some ‘pari taxi’ owners are civil servants.

“One person in the Western Division has about 17 to 18 private vehicle, and he’s given them out to drivers. This is a business operation, not casual carpooling,” Mr Lal said.

He claimed most ‘Pari’ taxi drivers are iTaukei who hire private vehicles, especially cars from Indo-Fijians.

“If you legalise ‘Pari’, then we should just remove all motor vehicle laws in Fiji. What’s the point? Just call Fiji a criminal law State,” he said.

The Land Transport Authority has yet to respond to Mr Lal.

Meanwhile the Minister for Transport, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, has announced plans to bring these operations into the legal framework in an effort to improve safety and service quality for passengers.

Last week, Ro Filipe outlined Government’s strategy to legalise and regulate pirate taxis.

He cited mounting complaints from members of the public against unreliable and unavailable taxi operations across Fiji.

He said formalising ‘Pirate taxis’ under the law would protect commuters and legitimate operators.

“This move will ensure that all taxis, including those operating outside the law, adhere to safety standards and are accountable to regulatory bodies,” Ro Filipe said.

“No one will be left behind. Taxi permit holders will continue operations as usual.”

The announcement comes on the heels of a significant legislative change the passing of the amended LTA Act in Parliament last Thursday.

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