These workshops commenced on Monday 31st July 2017, and covered basic first aid, customer service skills and a local history. Also, the St. Maarten Taxi Association made a special presentation over a two-day period.

Minister of Tourism, the Hon Lindsay F.P. Grant, expressed that the sector should always strive for greatness, and that the mandatory taxi workshops will improve the tourism product.

“It is important that we continue to highlight the importance of customer service, professionalism, courtesy and knowledge of our island,” Minister Grant said. “All these skills are a packaged deal and will determine whether our visitors were able to have the ultimate Kittitian experience.” 

Furthermore, the Minister Grant indicated the significance of structured taxi and tour bus operations system.

“Rules and regulations are compulsory. Our taxi and tour bus operator system must be organized and fall within guidelines of the F.C.C.A. in order for our destination to continue to grow within the cruise industry. We do not want what occurred at Falmouth Port in Jamaica, to happen in St. Kitts.” Minister Grant said.

Highlights from the workshop included CPR demonstrations by Mrs. Natalie Fough of the St. Kitts Red Cross. Mr. Leonard Stapleton offered an interesting and unique history lesson, which featured a bit of geology as well. Conrad Richardson and Lloyd Paul, of the St. Maarten Taxi Association provided an interactive session that focused on customer service, professionalism and the operations of their successful taxi system.
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