Taxi drivers have welcomed Government's plan to sanction bigger taxis.

Transport Minister Dr. Ewart Brown said the larger mini-bus style vehicles, which are already on the Island for drivers who had promised to pick up disabled people, were needed because tourists were arriving with more luggage.

Dr. Brown did not give a date for when the restrictions would be changed as he said the move to a global positioning system was a priority for the taxi industry.

Yesterday, taxi firms told The Royal Gazette that they were in favour of larger cabs.

Radio Cabs joint owner Edward Darrell said: "I think it's very good news for taxi owners. If people are coming from overseas you can't even take two people with all their luggage."

Bermuda Industrial Union Taxi Co-op President Alaina Mouchette said: "The smaller cabs just aren't suitable for taxi service here in Bermuda. You can't put even put in golf bags."

She said the larger cabs had plenty of space for luggage under the seats.

"I know of a lot of drivers who are looking to replace their cars but there is nothing suitable so taxi drivers should be very happy about this."

Bermuda Taxi Owners Association President Gordon Flood said: "It's welcome news but it doesn't make a heck of a big difference."

He said taxi owners had problems finding vehicles which would fit with Bermuda's size restrictions. He said the larger Volkswagen van-type cabs, which make up around ten percent of Bermuda's fleet of 600 cabs, were a nice size.

Mr. Flood said drivers would also now be able to look at other models.