After just about every conflict in the labour arena, we hear plenty of talk about finding ways to settle disputes without having to shut down crucial services to make a point. It would appear that not much progress has occurred in handling delicate issues, and when the gap of misunderstanding is wide, and the Government is involved, it raises further questions about the ability to have a closer link with public sentiment in dealing with various matters.

If more common sense was applied, instead of glossy proposals that come across as though there are hidden objectives, it serves only to create tensions and further divisiveness when we need to solidify efforts to improve our overall economic infrastructure, which would ultimately lead to more jobs and a better life for all.

The dispute between the taxi drivers and the Government over the proposal to permit tourists to rent a specially designed small car has touched a nerve with not only taxi drivers, but a number of Bermudians who are surprised that the Government would attempt to proceed with a scheme that most felt would have provoke a strong negative reaction.

With our roads clustered with just about every type of vehicle, and concerns about safety continuing to

mount, providing tourists with something outside of rented cycles is certainly not welcome news. Even if some survey showed a number of visitors would welcome being able to rent a car, it still may not be the right thing for this small island of winding, narrow roads.

OK, the experts may have a different view, but the important factor here is that when there are strong sentiments expressed by people who make their living driving a taxi and see the scheme as a threat, it is time for a commonsense approach.

We need our taxi drivers on the road 24/7 to provide service for both Bermudians and visitors alike, with the highest professional standards. When taxi drivers declared they would withdraw services to protest the

rental car proposal for visitors, the labour dispute bell sounded with that “here we go again” ring. That is not the sound Bermudians want to hear, no matter what area they work in.

On the other hand, there is a feeling that the Government has failed to make the connection with people to the point where there would be greater confidence that they have the people as their highest priority in conducting the affairs of the island.

An observation that stands out clear is that far more thought should be given before presenting any proposal that holds the potential for a backlash, from not only the Progressive Labour Party, but also people with no particular political leanings, but who simply want what is in the best interests of Bermudians.

The long, hot summer is well under way and the last thing we need are disagreements in our labour force that boil over into work stoppages. It should be pointed out clearly that dissatisfied workers in any area have a right to make their voices heard. No one is right or wrong all the time. This is why more common sense is required, and why cool thinking must prevail to collectively solve complex issues.

The Government must lead by example, as it is in the driver’s seat. Any government has a tough job trying to stay connected with the people, but that is its inescapable mandate.

The tourism industry will certainly not crumble if that rental car scheme was abolished. Perhaps a second look at the proposal with common sense at play may make a difference.

Governments can never please everyone, but they should avoid as much as possible any move that creates doubt and a lack of confidence in how it conducts the people’s business.