Transport Minister Warns Of Action Against Rogue Traffic Officers
Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Eli Zakour, says the government will be taking firm action against what he describes as a “small group” of traffic enforcement personnel accused of “harassing” motorists on the nation’s roads.
Speaking during Thursday’s Post-Cabinet Media Briefing, he revealed that the Ministry received credible reports indicating that certain constables, licensing officers, and traffic wardens have been abusing their authority while carrying out roadside enforcement duties.
He assured that the Ministry intends to address the matter directly and urgently.
« Information came to us as indicated that there are a small group of persons, constables, Trinidad and Tobago Police Service, licence officers, and even traffic wardens, harassing motorists. I cannot speak for Minister Alexander, who oversees the TTPS. However, the licence officers and the traffic wardens do fall under my remit, and I will be having discussions with them of their attitude when they are on a nation’s roads. »
Cabinet has agreed to adjust certain penalties, allowing drivers the opportunity to correct defects within three to seven working days, by being given a printed warning. But motorists would not be getting any grace period during the transition period, since the Parliament has to convene to amend the legislation first.
« I’m asking all motorists to please ensure that there’s no defects on your vehicle. You have a responsibility as a motorist to ensure there’s no defects on your vehicle. »
Minister Zakour also addressed the influx outside Licensing Offices, noting that many motorists were negligent in transferring their vehicles.
« What persons have been doing, they have been delaying for the motor vehicle tax, as you know, changes different brackets as years progress. They were waiting for the tax to go down and they are running into issues, where the persons who would have sold them the vehicle, unfortunately, may have passed. »
The Minister also urged motorists to renew their Driver’s Permits on time.
« To this point, over 1,000 persons have came to renew their driving permit late, along with persons who are coming within the legal time frame. That’s why there’s an overspill at the Licensing office. »
Under the adjustments to the fines, motorists will have three to seven working days, based on the defect, and must report to either a Police Station of Licensing Office once the defect has been rectified.
The Minister said he is aware of the risk of even longer lines at Licensing Offices.
« I’ve already spoken to the Minister of Homeland Security. There will be several consultation sessions on that matter. »
