Transport officials have seen an increase in bids to sign up for ridesharing permits, with the first rides taken on the official launch of the service this Wednesday.

Ten rides proceeded on day one, with a further 25 rides the next day, Owen Darrell, the Minister of Tourism, Transport, Culture and Sport, told the House of Assembly.

The details came in response to queries from Craig Cannonier, the shadow transport minister.

Earlier Mr Darrell emphasised to MPs that the move would complement taxi services rather than replacing them.

Mr Darrell said the Transport Control Department had so far received “approximately 79 applications for ridesharing permits”.

“Of these, approximately 19 applicants have successfully met the requirements for approval.

“At this stage of the process, approved applicants are required to remit payment for their permit, licence plates, decal and operator’s badge. Of the approved group, approximately 17 individuals have completed all required payments.”

He said there were 16 applicants at “the pre-approval stage”, awaiting final requirements such as vehicle inspections and “enhanced” insurance coverage.

He added: “In addition, approximately 20 individuals have now obtained a Public Service Vehicle Licence, enabling them to be considered for participation in Bermuda's ridesharing programme.

“From the outset, this Government has been clear in its approach: taxi first, rideshare when needed.”

He said there was “joy and excitement” at the launch after acknowledging last month that application numbers had fallen short of the ministry’s expectations.

Mr Darrell also updated MPs on the taxi industry, noting that, as of June 5, 72 of 108 previously unlicensed taxis had renewed their licences and returned to service.

He added: “Data shared by a dispatch stakeholder indicates that transportation activity accelerated following the ridesharing legislative announcement.

“Year-over-year growth increased from approximately 34 per cent prior to the legislation announcement to approximately 52 per cent thereafter, suggesting increased participation across the transportation sector and improved transportation availability for residents and visitors.”

The ridesharing framework included a maximum of 150 permits during its initial phase.

Mr Darrell said: “Given the public interest shown to date, applications will continue on a rolling basis and will be processed on a first come, first served basis until the permit cap is reached.

“The timing of this launch is especially significant as Bermuda enters the busy summer tourism season, including Carnival in Bermuda and other major events that generate increased transportation demand across the island.”

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• To read the minister’s statement in full, see Related Media