The Valley Anguilla, April 17, 2007: Owners of trucks and heavy equipment in Anguilla were called to a meeting with The Honourable Chief Minister Osbourne B. Fleming on Monday, April 16, 2007, in his conference room. The 2 hour late afternoon meeting that was held to address growing concerns of road users on the island, was also attended by Finance Minister Victor Banks.

Mr. Fleming reiterated that the meeting was necessary because the issues related to trucking and heavy equipment operations were overbearing. He pointed out a number of those issues that he considered distasteful including spillage of concrete mix, trails of gravel, dirt and dust pollution, hauling materials without proper cover or without any cover, wreck-less driving, inadequate use of straps, and speeding among other things.  He highlighted as "unfair" the fact that a large number of vehicles, some new brand vehicles, are tarnished from the concrete spillage in particular.  Mr. Fleming also highlighted that there are some trucks being driven without proper and adequate lighting, without insurance, and without authentic registration.

The Chief Minister went on to say that the owners must insist that their operators exercise due caution and attention in order to prevent unnecessary dangers and damages. He instructed the owners to admonish their respective drivers and operators that the equipment in use is not ordinary and as such their involvements in accidents are most likely to be very serious if not fatal.  He highlighted the Government’s efforts to enhance the roads island-wide for greater access and for the betterment of traffic flow and also stated that despite the enhancement and improvements road users must maintain a sound presence of mind and respect for human life and property.  

While recognizing the seriousness of the issues brought forward, the owners themselves raised some important points for consideration.  One point that appeared to strike a central chord concerned drivers on the road who stop in the road and in so doing,  put themselves in precarious positions. The group highlighted that it is extremely important that persons recognize that
these trucks are not easily controlled like cars and that traffic is on the increase.  Regarding the covering of material they pointed out that most of the trucks arrive on island with covers but these covers have been destroyed by over grown trees on the roadside and sometimes while loading.  It was suggested that trucks should not load over the rail.  The issue of strapping blocks, cement and other items in transportation was not so easily resolved.  There were a number of opinions as to the methodology and the rationale especially for blocks which disassemble if there is a broken block in the pallot.  Other issues addressed included forklifts driving on the road and the quantity of black smoke pollution being emitted.  The issue of job hopping was also discussed. 

The Honourable Victor F. Banks was particularly keen on ensuring that agreements were reached on the way forward regarding respective issues.   He tried at the closing of the meeting to put things in perspective.  He informed the owners of the trucks/heavy equipment that Government was meeting in short order with the police and this was an opportune moment to ensure that the rationale for addressing issues was sound and palatable.  Mr. Fleming closed the meeting by stating “we must look for black sheep before dark.”   Chief Minister Fleming said he wanted to use moral ‘suasion to address these issues.  He went on further to admonish owners to take the initiative and interest to remedy concerns of safety, protection of life and security of property as he was prepared to pass laws in the House of Assembly.  The meeting proved to be fruitful and was conducted in an atmosphere of mutual respect and goodwill.