Mini-bus style vehicles in St. David's, free public transportation and a new ferry dock are high priorities for Transport Minister, Premier Ewart Brown in the upcoming election.

Dr. Brown explained the PLP's platform for transport including what they plan to do for Bermuda if elected on December 18. The Premier said in December, the Department of Public Transportation will introduce the first in a series of smaller, mini-bus style vehicles for St. David's.

"This will be a proud day and one which makes all our planning worthwhile. The use of these buses will allow us to better serve areas of the Island where our larger buses cannot be effectively used," he said.

Another plan is to provide free public transportation, a plan that will be worked on with Minister of Finance, Paula Cox.

A new ferry dock at Boaz Island is also in the works as residents have voiced concerns about not having a dock.

The new TCD facility is being built and ready to open next year with "first rate technology and customer service".

When asked about a solution for reducing traffic, Dr. Brown said this "quality of life issue remains on the front burner".

He explained the ministry's national transportation management consultant, Larry Jacobs, has held detailed discussions with representatives of the business community to figure out how to get people into public transportation.

Another solution he said was passing legislation to use airport limousines as school buses. He said he has met with principals of all the private schools to discuss traffic issues.

As far as GPS, Dr. Brown said: "When it comes to GPS many are not complaining. We have divided the drivers into those who are computer-comfortable and those who are not. The ones who are comfortable seem to be very happy with GPS."

With the promised additional bus routes during peak hours on a 15 minute frequency, the Premier explained the difficulty was hiring drivers but said a supplementary schedule with peak times has been running.

He said as the personnel increase, the service will increase.