Taxi drivers warned last night that there will be even stronger opposition this summer than last if Government pushes ahead with plans to introduce a new dispatching system this year.

Bermuda Taxi Owners Association spokesman Lee Tucker hinted drivers could strike at the height of the tourist season if the global positioning satellite (GPS) technology favoured by Government is forced on them.

And he said drivers were pushing for an increase in fares to compensate for implementing either GPS or an alternative system proposed by taxi owners.

Last June, the Senate rejected the GPS proposals which were passed by the House of Assembly. Under the Constitution, Government can wait for one year and the plans automatically become law.

Transport Minister Dr. Ewart Brown confirmed last night he will be implementing GPS this year, although a date has not been determined.

Last night Mr Tucker told The Royal Gazette: "The feeling is that if there is any push for GPS there will be strong opposition, stronger even than before. Undoubtedly.

"When before it took a stoppage of work, if it has to go further, we will do so. We will do whatever it takes to show the Minister we are not in favour of GPS.

"We still live in a democratic society, so we can refuse to work at the height of the season. I don't think the hoteliers would want a breakdown or stoppage of work, but we don't want the system enforced on us. We think there are other ways that this can work, which is the other system we are proposing."

Mr. Tucker said drivers had proposed a computerised dispatch system to the Public Service Vehicle Licensing Board where other companies would get a job if one firm was too busy. The board is still deciding what to do, he said.

This system is cheaper than GPS, said Mr. Tucker, but it would still cost money to implement and drivers wanted fare increases to cover this.

"We are talking to the board and I don't want to comment on negotiations at this stage, but an increase (in fares) is in order because we have not had an increase for the past five or six years," he said.

"Under normal circumstances, there should have been an increase to cover the increased cost of living. But if GPS or the other (computerised) equipment is introduced there will be an additional increase, so there needs to be even more (fare increases)."

Dr Brown said last night: "It is still my intention to bring it this year but we haven't finalised (the date) yet.

"We haven't determined our exact strategy. Our emphasise is on service to the public, not a fight with the taxi drivers."

Asked about the possibility of a taxi strike this summer, Dr Brown said: "No comment."