Taxi drivers have hit back at claims by supporters of global positioning satellite (GPS) systems that they are afraid of new technology.

Rolfe Commissiong, an investor in Advanced Tech Solutions, which plans to sell a computerised dispatch system that can be used with GPS, said last week that people who opposed GPS were motivated by self-interest and fear of technology.

He spoke out after the Senate last week delayed by one year Government plans to force all drivers to install GPS in their cabs.

But Lee Tucker of the Bermuda Taxi Owners' Association rejected the claim and said drivers were only in favour of technology that would definitely work.

That was why the BTOA had recommended to Transport Minister Dr. Ewart Brown that the Island's dispatch companies use computers, which would allow them to keep detailed records, and to pass jobs to rival firms if they did not have enough cars available.

"We take strong exception to the claims made by Mr. Commissiong and others that we are fearful of new technology," he told The Royal Gazette.

"That is not the situation at all. We embrace new technology, providing it can assist us in our business.

"This is one of the reasons why we have recommended to the Minister that that the dispatching services have computers.

"This would allow the dispatching companies to have records and to send jobs to other companies if there are not enough cars.

"We feel there is the need for a full inquiry or investigation into the problems of the taxi industry to enable us to correct them before going to the great expense of GPS or other systems.

"It would not be of assistance to us, it would cost more and the general public would have to pay more. We feel it is unfair to punish the public or visitors to allow investors like Mr. Commissiong to benefit.

"As businessmen, we have rights and privileges and GPS should be made optional. If it is successful, all the guys will want to get on-board.

"The Senate saw it in that manner, and we appreciate the support we got. Despite what the Minister is saying about the public supporting GPS, we have had support from the public in our opposition to GPS."