ST JOHN’S, Antigua – At least one taxi association on the island is fully onboard with the attempts by the Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA), to drum up support for the service ambassador programme, offered at the Antigua & Barbuda Hospitality Training Institute.

The programme creates an awareness of Antigua & Barbuda’s history and an interest in the various sites and attractions available.

CEO of the Tourism Authority Colin James on yesterday’s Voice of the People programme made the call for taxi drivers to take advantage of the opportunity to learn more about the country’s history.

James said that if legitimate taxi drivers participate in the exercise, it would improve their skill sets and the service delivery offered to visitors.

“All taxi drivers, once you are licensed with the Antigua & Barbuda Transport Board to be a commercial taxi driver, you should undergo that training and have that proper certification, because this is what the modern day traveller and visitor is looking for,” James said.

Speaking to OBSERVER media subsequent to James’s interview, President of the St John’s Taxi Association Evanson Ellis said all but six of the members have completed the short course and are certified.

“All of our members have already completed that programme. I think it is very good so I think it is worth it,” Ellis said.

He also indicated that anyone who is interested should participate in the programme whether they are taxi drivers or not.