Premier David Burt has addressed the growing debate surrounding ride-sharing services in Bermuda, acknowledging that there is little the government can do to prevent new services from entering the market in the absence of clear regulations. His remarks come as pressure mounts following the recent emergence of the Island Go app, a ride-sharing service operating illegally on the island. Although the company has committed to adhering to local laws once new regulations are in place, the Bermuda Taxi Owners and Operators Association (BTOA) asserts that the Premier has the authority to halt any business that does not comply with existing legislation.
In a recent interview with Bermuda Broadcasting, Premier Burt stated that it is “inevitable” new services will attempt to enter the market, but emphasized that the government’s proposal for regulating ride-sharing is designed to complement the taxi industry, not compete with it. The Premier acknowledged that the current lack of regulations limits the government’s ability to stop such services, but reiterated the administration’s commitment to creating a system that protects both the taxi industry and Bermuda’s transportation needs.
“The government of Bermuda has put forward proposals that are still being consulted on regarding a ride-sharing structure in Bermuda that will complement the taxi industry,” Premier Burt said. “Taxis will have the first right to a ride, and only if they are unable to meet demand will the request go to a private car. The proposal is not designed to undercut taxis.”
However, the BTOA strongly disagrees with the Premier’s stance, stating that his office has the power to stop businesses that are operating illegally and outside the scope of current regulations. The Association also argues that the Premier’s comments overlook key issues, such as insurance coverage and financial compliance, which remain unresolved in the case of unregulated ride-sharing apps like Island Go.
The BTOA asserts that the government has the legal authority to enforce the laws and prevent illegal services from operating on the island. “The Premier has the power to halt any business that does not operate within the regulation and legislation his office upholds and administers,” a spokesperson for the BTOA said. “There is no need to wait for new laws to be in place when existing regulations are already being violated.”
The Association also criticized the Premier’s claim that ride-sharing apps undercut the taxi industry. “The reality is that the cost of rides via these illegal ride-sharing apps is often higher than traditional taxis due to unregulated service fees, peak time surcharges, booking fees, and inflated journey rates,” the BTOA stated. “None of these additional charges are included when customers use a traditional metered taxi.”
Furthermore, the BTOA raised concerns about insurance coverage. “Current insurance policies do not cover private cars for transporting passengers for hire. This leaves passengers exposed, with no insurance protection in the event of an accident while using these ride-share apps,” the spokesperson added. “Additionally, the financial infrastructure supporting these apps is not compliant with Bermuda’s financial laws, creating further risk for both drivers and passengers.”
The BTOA urges the government to take immediate enforcement action against illegal ride-sharing services. “The Premier’s comments fail to address the urgency of the situation,” the Association stated. “There are serious risks to passengers, drivers, and Bermuda’s reputation as a financial jurisdiction. The Premier needs to act now, using the full weight of his office to enforce the law and protect the public.”
The BTOA continues to advocate for a regulated ride-sharing system that works in harmony with the existing taxi industry while ensuring that all services comply with Bermuda’s laws, regulations, and insurance requirements.
Best regards,
Public Relations executive
Bermuda Taxi Owners and Operators Association (BTOA)
