Taxi operators who ply their trade in the Virgin Islands will soon be the recipients of a government piloted COVID-19 economic stimulus package to make up for lost income as a result of lockdown measures to prevent the spread of the Novel Coronavirus in the territory.

Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities, Hon Kye M. Rymer (R7) made the announcement while speaking about the implementation of the City Park and Ride Shuttle Service yesterday, June 19, 2020, during a sitting of the VI House of Assembly (HoA).

"Due to COVID-19, it has now been decided to also use the services as an opportunity to provide an economic stimulus option for taxi operators who may be experiencing reduced income because of the closure of our borders."

He said the Ministry has convened a series of meetings with taxi operators throughout the territory, to bring this stimulus incentive into effect.

Taxi operators providing input - Hon Rymer

While it is unclear what the stimulus package will entail, Hon Rymer indicated that the package is being developed with import from taxi operators based on needs specific to them.

"Our first meeting was held on Tortola on 13th June with over 20 persons in attendance... Today, 19th June we met with Taxi Operators on Jost Van Dyke to discuss the stimulus package that will be specific to them. Our next meeting on Tortola is scheduled for 20th June, where we hope to finalize our implementation strategy of the Park and Ride Service," Hon Rymer told the House.

Hon Rymer said other meetings to address the stimulus package needs of Virgin Gorda and Anegada taxi operators will take place within the coming weeks.