Livery Union Fires Back at Taxi Cab Chief’s Claims

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NASSAU , BAHAMAS – The back and forth between the two unions continues, with Bahamas Livery Driver Union President Tory Austin dismissing claims made by Taxi Cab Union President Tyrone Butler, saying the complaints are more about seeking attention than finding solutions.

Tory Austin – President, Bahamas Livery Driver Union

“I do not want to go back and forth with Tyrone, who seems to want some attention or whatever. This rivalry has deemed us public enemy number one.”

Austin says multiple meetings have been held with stakeholders in an effort to ease tensions and find common ground, but he claims those efforts have been rejected.

Tory Austin – President, Bahamas Livery Driver Union

“We were sitting at the table saying that we can come together and come to a common ground to work together, and we were all for that. We are still all for that. Tyrone himself said he does not want that.”

Austin also rejected claims that livery drivers are cutting into taxi drivers’ business at the airport. He argues the numbers tell a different story, saying there is just one livery driver for every 25 taxi drivers, making it unlikely that his union’s six-vehicle fleet could have a major impact. He went on to say that what taxi drivers are experiencing is the result of a more competitive market, not livery drivers taking their customers.

Tory Austin – President, Bahamas Livery Driver Union

“What the government has done is increase the taxi market in this country. They are now feeling the pinch, but you can’t blame us and say we’re taking your jobs. We are operating as normal.”

Austin also argued that it makes little financial sense for livery operators to chase lower-fare taxi customers, given the high cost of operating luxury vehicles.

Tory Austin – President, Bahamas Livery Driver Union

“A $30 taxi job cannot maintain a real luxury livery car, so it’s just nonsense. It’s just a bunch of crying from Tyrone as he tries to appease his members, I guess.”

For now, passengers remain caught in the middle of a growing standoff. And with both sides digging in, the dispute shows no signs of ending anytime soon.