REGINALD Budhan, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, says more mechanics and auto technicians need to become trained and certified in order to meet new standards in the motor repairer industry.

Speaking at the launch of the Jamaica Automobile Association’s (JAA) Approved Auto Repairer programme, held recently at the JAA office in Swallowfield, St Andrew, Budhan noted that the industry was rapidly evolving and required more skilled technicians who were capable of offering quality service to the more than 500,000 registered motor vehicles across the island.

“Today’s modernised automotive industry requires higher standards, and although many mechanics are experienced some have not adapted to the changes within the industry,” the ministry’s chief technocrat told the gathering of garage owners and stakeholders at the launch.

“The industry is evolving; and, therefore, standards and consistent training need to be applied to maintain the quality of services garages offer,” he emphsised.

General Manager of the JAA Duane Ellis, noted that the company’s Approved Auto Repairer programme aimed to guarantee that technicians were certified and multi-skilled. In announcing the programme, he said the participating auto shops will be required to ensure that their technicians are certified and trained by the relevant training institutes such as the Jamaican German Automotive School (JAGAS).

“The approved garages must also use up-to-date and precise equipment to diagnose and repair motor vehicles; as well as sustain clean, nonhazardous garage facilities,” Ellis said. The JAA will also be monitoring the facilities’ standards in customer service and business administration.

Four auto shops have already been

certified and branded by the JAA

The four facilities are Ankara Limited ,Andre’s Auto Supplies, Auto Maintenance Limited and Everett Fenton’s Garage Limited.

According to the JAA, other garages across the island are currently making the necessary changes to become approved.

In the meantime Budhan, who commended the JAA for conceptualising the programme, said the initiative was introduced at an opportune time as the Government was looking at ways to improve its Motor Vehicle Policy.

Deputy manager, HEART Trust/ NTA JAGAS, Kevin Baxter, and director of field operations at the Consumer Affairs Commission, Cheryl Tracey also endorsed the JAA programme.