pick fares under new initiatives aimed at combatting violent attacks on drivers.

Transport Minister Wayne Furbert yesterday released suggestions made at a meeting aimed at protecting taxi drivers.

The move came as the Bermuda Taxi Federation met last night to thrash out ways to give drivers greater protection.

Taxi drivers, Police and transport officials took part in the talks, which went on late into the evening.

Joe Brown, the Federation's secretary, said after the meeting that he broadly agreed with the Minister's suggestions, although he said taxi drivers were not in favour of sprays.

"It was one of the largest meetings organised by the Federation. There was standing room only as the drivers wanted to talk about their safety,'' said Mr. Brown.

The Transport Minister met last Friday with the Taxi Advisory Committee, Police and Transport Control Department officials. Details of their discussions were released yesterday.

"I am very concerned about these recent attacks,'' said Mr. Furbert. "I am hopeful that we can find ways in which our taxi drivers can operate safely and securely without fear of attack.'' Suggestions for greater cabbie protection put forward at the meeting included: Giving drivers the right to refuse a fare if the person is acting suspiciously.

Arming drivers with non-toxic dye spray -- which is legally available for sale from security companies in Bermuda.

Giving drivers the right to ask for indentification from a fare before the person enters the taxi. The indentification could then be telephoned through to a dispatching service.

Encouraging drivers not to carry large amounts of cash and not giving change for an bill larger than $20.

"These are now only suggestions,'' added the Minister.

Cab drivers discuss safety "However I am looking forward to continuing discussions on them with the Taxi Advisory Committee.

"In addition, I have asked the Committee to look into any technological methods which might be available to further enhance security.'' Last night Mr. Brown added that the Federation supported the suggestions -- but not the spray -- and that drivers have already been told not to take bills larger than $20.

In addition he said that the possibility of asking people for a deposit when they got into the taxi had been discussed. It is thought that would discourage people from running off without paying fares.

Meanwhile, Mr. Brown revealed that taxi drivers will take part in a day-long ballot on the possibility of industrial action over the proposals for fare increases. The date and venue of the ballot are to be announced.