Potential Political and Business Connections in Rideshare Plans

Dear Members, We want to keep you updated on recent developments that have significant implications for our industry. There have been important discussions in the House concerning the government’s rideshare plans and Premier David Burt’s past involvement with a transportation app. Here are the key points

Key Developments:

Political Tensions:

In a heated exchange in the House this morning, Premier David Burt was questioned about his financial interest in the Hitch app, a transportation app he co-founded in 2014. The Premier reiterated that he has had no active role in the company since becoming Premier and is only a minority shareholder.
Opposition MP Susan Jackson raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest, given the Premier’s past involvement with Hitch and the proposed rideshare digital technology.

Government’s Stance

The Premier emphasized that the company in question is a licensed dispatcher and denied any ongoing collaboration or collusion between the company and the government’s rideshare plans.
The Premier accused the opposition of creating false drama and political gamesmanship.

Rideshare Digital Platform

Questions were raised about the tendering process and procurement of the new rideshare technology. The Premier responded that the government is still meeting with stakeholders and will finalize the policy before presenting it.
He dismissed the opposition’s concerns as rumors and conjecture, assuring that the process will be transparent and compliant with regulations.

Implications for Taxi Operators:

Regulatory Concerns: The introduction of a rideshare platform raises significant regulatory issues that need to be addressed. We will closely monitor the development of this policy and its impact on our industry.
Transparency and Fairness: We insist on a transparent tendering process and fair competition. Any potential conflicts of interest must be fully disclosed and scrutinized to ensure a level playing field.
Advocacy: We will continue to advocate for the interests of our members, ensuring that our voices are heard in these discussions.

Next Steps:

Stay Informed: We will keep you updated on further developments regarding the rideshare plans and any related legislative changes.
Engage: Participate in upcoming BTOA meetings to discuss these issues and formulate our collective response.
Advocate: Reach out to your local representatives to express your concerns about the potential impact of these plans on our industry.

We understand the complexities of these issues and remain committed to protecting the interests of our members. Your support and involvement are crucial as we navigate these challenges together.

Best regards,

Randy Broadbelt

Public Relations excutive

Bermuda Taxi Owners and Operators Association (BTOA)