Recalcitrant drivers would be sanctioned - Mr Otoo

Accra, July 24, GNA - The Ghana Private Road and Transport Union (GPTRU) branch of the Accra CMB -Kasoa Drivers Union on Sunday said it would expose and sanction its members, who evaded taxes, and, therefore defaulters to reform.

Speaking at a general meeting of the Drivers in Accra, Mr Joseph Quayson Otoo, Chairman of the Union, said its hard line was not meant to destroy anybody's image but to assist the Government in its revenue mobilisation.

"The road we are using is the result of monies accrued from taxes without which there would be constant breakdowns of our vehicles and unwarranted accidents", he said. Mr Otoo also attributed causes of accidents to drivers, who had private licence but had bent rules to drive heavy or commercial vehicles and plying on unapproved routes as well as drunkenness. He, therefore, appealed to the Police Motor Traffic Transport Unit (MTTU) to conduct regular checks on Drivers to ascertain the amount of alcohol in blood of Drivers, saying that would make them to be more disciplined.

Mr Otoo said since they played a unique role in the transport sector those, who had not yet registered with the Ghana Health Insurance Scheme should do so to enable them to benefit from it. He further warned Drivers not to interweave during rush hours, saying that to cut across suddenly or criss-crossing could cause fatal accidents asked them to exercise the highest restraint during the period.

Mr Otoo advised them to be careful on the Accra - Kasoa Road, which was currently under construction, and heed to road signs. 25 July 05