Age discrimination against public transportation drivers will come to an end if members of the Cabinet approve amended legislation later this month.
We have heard drivers older than 70 who were forced to retire because of age complain in the past because they were being deprived the right to earn a living.
They have a right to complain.
Turning one year older doesn’t necessarily mean that you are automatically unable to safely drive.
Minister Charles Clifford has warned that the amendment will have to contain some kind of provision that individuals older than a certain age would be required to have a certificate from a doctor stating that the driver is medically fit and capable of driving, including good eyesight.
But we suggest the amendment go further.
An on-the-road driving test could be administered to ensure the older driver can safely leave the curb, drive in a straight line, manoeuvre roundabouts and intersections, return to the curb and brake smoothly and effectively.
The test could involve more, but it would be one to set the minds of those at the Public Transport Board at ease that the driver is capable of ferrying passengers.
Those who fail the test should be allowed to retake it after a certain time, but they should have to pay.
We do believe that most drivers are aware of the signs of aging and know when their ability to drive safely is compromised.
On a broader scale it wouldn’t be a bad idea for all drivers older than age 60 to take driving refresher courses where they would have an opportunity to share their experiences and concerns and re-familiarise themselves with traffic rules and road safety.
Cayman’s roadways have changed dramatically in just the past 10 years and with the influx of so many other nationalities it is evident that not everyone in this country knows all the rules of the road.
We await the legislation that will make it legal for drivers older than 70 to continue making a living through public transport.
It’s a good idea and helps ensure that these ambassadors continue to be an asset to the Cayman Islands.
We do believe that most drivers are aware of the signs of aging and know when their ability to drive safely is compromised.
Related Videos
