The Tribune

THE Road Traffic Department headquarters in the Clarence A Bain Building and the Examinations Unit in the Munnings building, both on Thompson Boulevard, will relocate temporarily to the Eastern Grandstand of the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium from Monday October 17 because of the damage caused by Hurricane Matthew.

A statement from the department on Saturday morning said the temporary location will provide all services, including "normal Vehicle Inspection and Licensing, Inspection of Rental Car Company Vehicles, Inspections of Jitneys, Tour Buses, Private Charter Buses and Private Schedule Buses, Renewal and Issuance of Driver’s Licenses and the complete Driver’s Examination process, both theory and practical".

"Further, Licensing and Inspection will continue at both the Carmichael and West Bay Centres, until further notice. Additionally, the West Bay Centre will conduct Inspections of Livery Cars, Taxis and Rental Car Company Vehicles.

"Additionally, the recently announced introduction of the department’s new computerised automated system, scheduled for October 17th, will now begin on October 21st. This process, which establishes an electronic workflow system, will be in its testing phase in preparation for the official launch of the system by mid-November. That date will be announced shortly."

The statement said that a week ago, the Department had announced its intention to execute the phased relocation of Road Traffic to the temporary facilities at the National Stadium. "The Controller has emphasised that in view of the fact that the relocation process for all operations have been expedited, the Department will work diligently to minimise delays and inefficiencies in the delivery of its services to the public".

"Understanding the realityof this mandatory full relocation of headquarters operations, Department staff are fully aware of the potential challenges which could result, and they are working expeditiously to ensure that systems are in place to mitigate against adverse consequences. The staff of the Department are keenly aware that these types of situations can create levels of frustration, if service levels decline, or fail to reach expectations.

"The Controller has emphasised that the Department is committed to do all in its power to ensure that the transition is made as smoothly as possible, and that all concerns are addressed with sensitivity, and in a professional and timely manner. Accordingly, the Controller has appealed to its valuable clients to exercise patience as it works to provide quality, efficient service during this transition period."