GPS grace period extended for taxi operators

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Transportation Minister Walter Roban announced that a grace period allowing taxis to continue operating without a GPS system.

He further announced that the Taxi Commission, a subcommittee of the Public Service Vehicles Licensing Board, will have its authority expanded to help improve the industry moving forward.

“As part of an initiative for greater empowerment, the Taxi Commission will become a statutory body reflective of the diversity of the industry, as opposed to just a Government subcommittee, which it is now,” Mr Roban said.

Taxi operators and the Government have previously clashed on the issue of GPS devices.

After many operators failed to retain their licence during the last licensing period due to a lack of GPS, the Ministry introduced a six-month grace period, which was due to end on June 30.

While Government has said requiring the devices improves service, many taxi operators have complained about the cost of the devices.

In a statement released yesterday, the Bermuda Taxi Operators Association (BTOA) said that while two-way radio systems used in the past allowed operators to communicate without taking their eyes off the road, the same could not be said about the GPS systems.

He further noted that unlike radio systems, the GPS systems are “outdated and redundant” after three or four years of service.

BTOA President Leopold Kuchler said in the statement: “We stand for the application and option of voice, the original and most effective dispatch system ever, accepted in every country of the world as it has been in Bermuda for over 40 years, providing a safe and fair working environment for thousands of families.”

Mr Roban yesterday said the Taxi Commission, chaired by Cromwell Shakir, was asked to submit a report on all facets and components associated with GPS.

Mr Roban said the report recommended further high level discussions with taxi owners, operators and dispatching companies.

“As recommended, the Ministry will continue to engage the Taxi owners, operators and dispatching companies through the Taxi Commission to provide the best way forward,” he said.

“The most immediate focus is the June 30 deadline and the need to implement a framework that has a reasonable application in the short and long term.

“Effective July 1, the grace period will be extended and the Taxi Commission will advise on the way forward with this specific issue prior to the re-licencing period that commences on November 1.”

Regarding the expansion of the Taxi Commission, Mr Roban said the group’s remit will be how best to improve the taxi industry, as well as look at the potential benefits of implementing a fuel surcharge, an increase in the metered rate, group vehicle and health insurance plans and additional discounts for taxi owners and operator vehicles.

“The Taxi Commission will also be responsible for industry service matters comprising deportment, conduct, behaviour of taxi drivers and dispute resolution,” Mr Roban said.

“As the work on the commission continues on these very important issues and matters, the Ministry of Transport will keep the public fully abreast of the progress.

“The Government believes the steps announced today will introduce more fairness in how issues important to the development of the industry are handled. We feel this will also address the belief by some that the concerns of the industry have not been heard or listened to in recent years.”

Mr Roban also briefly discussed the minibus industry, stating that the Public Service Vehicles Licensing Board will work to advance the required regulations and provide guidance on the future of the industry.

Speaking following the conference, Mr Kuchler said he was pleased that the Minister appears to be listening to the industry and putting more power into the industry’s hands.

“I just hope we will be successful and be able to continue to use voice dispatch. It’s essential,” he said.

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