Dial-A-Ride employee gets booted after positive drug test

A female employee of the Dial-A-Ride program was released two weeks ago, after a random drug test netted positive results.

When contacted for comments yesterday, Dial-A-Ride program coordinator Adelle Tilei-Fenumia’i confirmed the news and said, “We have zero tolerance for drug use.”

According to Tilei-Fenumia’i, the employee is a young female who was hired less than a year ago under a program that places students directly into the workforce.

She explained that all employees of the Dial-A-Ride program, including drivers, dispatchers, office personnel, administrators, and even herself, are all subject to random drug and alcohol testing.

“This is a requirement by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and we have to follow it,” Tilei-Fenumia’i continued.

The Dial-A-Ride program is federally funded under the FTA.

The random drug tests should be expected by everyone hired to work for the Dial-A-Ride program, as all new hires are told — during the interview process — that they are subjected to unannounced testing for drugs and alcohol.

“This is a must for our program,” Tilei-Fenumia’i said. “People’s lives are at risk and we need to take that seriously. Enforcement is our priority. Once a drug or alcohol test comes back positive, you are out.”

The Dial-A-Ride program, which celebrated its one-year anniversary in January — is for the elderly and those with disabilities.

It is a program that is housed at the Department of Public Works (DPW) compound and provides transportation for those who need special assistance like the wheelchair-bound and handicapped.

For just a small fee of $1, seniors and the disabled can catch a ride to places like the LBJ Medical Center, the Social Security Administration, the Post Office, the banks, and the food stamp (ASNAP) office, to name a few.

The ‘fare’ is to maintain the fleet of four vans and three buses.

The Dial-A-Ride program has a clientele of about 400 and is available not only in Tutuila but also Ta’u, Manu’a.

It operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

In addition to being a drug free environment, the Dial-A-Ride program also features drivers that are well versed in administering first aid and all are CPR certified.