'Tougher Health Checks Will Worsen Driver Shortage'

Transport sector representatives on Monday said they are concerned that a plan to tighten health checks for older taxi and minibus drivers will lead to an exodus of workers from the industry.

At present, commercial vehicle drivers aged 70 or above must present a medical certificate when applying for a licence or seeking to renew it.

But sources said the Transport Department wants to lower the age to 65 and require annual checks, including hearing and vision screenings, amid concerns over accidents involving older drivers.

The chairman of the Hong Kong Taxi and PLB Association, Chow Kwok-keung, told RTHK that some drivers may decide it's too much hassle.

"For drivers aged between 70 and 75, most of them take up driving jobs just for leisure. If these drivers are required to do body checks every year and disclose any underlying health conditions, they may feel uncomfortable,” he said.

“We are worried that it will put pressure on the drivers and cause them to quit their jobs."

Ling Chi-keung, chairman of the Public Light Bus General Association, also told another radio programme that the stricter requirements will worsen a manpower crunch in the sector, as most minibus drivers are above the age of 65.

However, a specialist in geriatrics, Paul Shea, said in-depth health checks are necessary to make sure drivers are fit when they’re behind the wheel.

Roundtable lawmaker Michael Tien also told RTHK that he supports the idea, even though officials should consider subsidising drivers to alleviate their financial burden.