Manchester Taxi Operators Protest Over Parking Space

Taxi operators in Manchester are protesting limited parking spaces. They argue inadequate space leaves them no choice but to park on sidewalks, resulting in ticketing for traffic violations. Their protests come on the heels of a taxi operator allegedly being abused by a police officer in the area on Wednesday. Dozens of residents were left stranded, as taxi operators in Manchester withdrew their service.

As the operators express frustration to the space not having a proper transportation park, they also support one of their colleagues, Jermaine Cunningham, who suffered blows from a police officer on Wednesday, over alleged traffic obstruction violations.

President of the Taxi Association Ruby Parton says since the operators are charged for parking on the sidewalk, the authorities must provide proper parking for them. Cunningham received support from fellow taxi operators, who describe the incident as unfortunate. Plans to withdraw services for the coming days were also expressed by other taxi operators.

Meanwhile, Donovan Mitchell, Chairman of the Manchester Corporation and Mayor of Mandeville says discussions were had between the corporation and Transport Minister Audley Shaw relating to an expansion of the transportation center. However, they are waiting on funding before the project can commence.

Reporter: Nasika Alliman