BTOA Clarifies Position on Meeting with Minister

Dear Members, In light of recent announcements by Transport Minister Wayne Furbert regarding the government’s planned ridesharing program, it is crucial to clarify the position of the Bermuda Taxi Owners and Operators Association (BTOA). Contrary to some interpretations, our meeting with the Minister was not to agree or support the new initiative but simply to have our questions answered. Here are the key points of concern and clarification:

BTOA's Concerns on Rideshare Program

Misuse of Taxi Laws for Private Cars: One of the foremost concerns is the application of taxi laws to introduce private cars into the taxi industry. The BTOA questions the rationale behind this decision. Why are private cars being allowed to perform taxi work under regulations originally designed for licensed taxi services? This move blurs the lines between professional taxi services and casual rideshare operations, potentially undermining the standards and accountability that our industry upholds.

Addressing Availability Issues: Minister Furbert cited the lack of availability of taxis during peak times as a primary reason for the rideshare program. However, the BTOA believes this issue could be more effectively resolved by issuing more Temporary Taxi Permits or Full Taxi Permits. By increasing the number of officially licensed taxis, we can meet demand without compromising the integrity of the taxi industry or introducing potentially unregulated private cars into the mix.

Disparity in Service Fees: Another significant concern is the introduction of a service fee for rideshare users. Since 2016, various taxi dispatch companies have been charging service fees, a cost borne by both drivers and passengers. Yet, rideshare operators are exempt from the monthly subscription fees that taxi drivers must pay, with their service fees added to each fare instead. This discrepancy creates an uneven playing field and unfairly advantages rideshare drivers over traditional taxi operators.

Details of the Rideshare Program

Minister Furbert’s announcement provided several specifics about the rideshare program:

No Dedicated App: Rides will be booked through existing apps like Hitch and Ride Bermuda, as well as traditional phone dispatching services.
Priority to Taxi Drivers: Ride requests will be sent to taxi drivers first. Only if no taxi responds will the request go to rideshare drivers.
Commercial Insurance and Vehicle Licenses: Rideshare drivers must purchase commercial insurance and a service vehicle license, similar to taxi drivers.
Mandatory Availability on All Dispatch Services: Rideshare drivers must be registered with all four of Bermuda’s dispatching services, ensuring they receive all potential ride requests.
Background Checks and Vehicle Inspections: Rideshare drivers will undergo the same background checks and vehicle inspections as taxi drivers to ensure safety and suitability.

Supplementing Taxi Services, Not Replacing Them

Minister Furbert emphasized that the rideshare scheme aims to supplement, not replace, existing taxi services. The intent is to address high demand during peak times, such as summer and busy evenings. However, the BTOA maintains that expanding the number of licensed taxis could achieve this goal without diluting the standards and accountability inherent in the taxi industry.

Call to Action for Taxi Owners and Operators

The BTOA urges all taxi owners and operators to stay informed about these developments and continue voicing their concerns. It is vital that we engage in constructive dialogue with the government to ensure that any changes to our industry are fair, equitable, and in the best interest of both drivers and passengers.

We encourage everyone to attend upcoming meetings, participate in discussions, and remain united in our efforts to protect and enhance the taxi industry in Bermuda. Your feedback and support are crucial as we navigate these changes together.

For further updates and information, please stay tuned to BTOA communications and contact us with any questions or concerns.

Randy Broadbelt

Public Relations excutive

Bermuda Taxi Owners and Operators Association (BTOA)