Review of taxi industry will show clear direction of travel
THE taxi review will point the industry in the right direction, according to Taxi Federation president Leon Gallienne.
Guernsey Hospitality Association president Alan Sillett has also been involved in the public consultation and suggested that the States helps to introduce an Uber-like set-up on the island.
He was also keen that the population management laws were changed to make it easier for people to enter the taxi driving business, even on just a part-time basis.
‘We have been liaising with the consultancy firm who are working on behalf of the States conducting a review into the island’s taxi service,’ he said.
‘The situation is a serious one. There could be complications with regards to regulations and licensing, but we will see what the DVA and Environment & Infrastructure make of the consultant’s report.’
Mr Gallienne was doubtful of the success of these ideas, but hoped the review would reveal some new recommendations.
‘There are some good intentions but they are not well thought out ideas,’ he said.
‘I am confident when the review comes out we will have to take certain criticisms on the chin, but we need to be big, we need to be strong, and we need to work together to improve our industry and many others.’
He said these ideas would not change the early morning hours, or the queues at the airport on a Sunday evening.
‘It’s a myth that Uber would solve all the problems.
‘Changing the population management laws would be a big States decision and would open up a whole new ball game.’
He said Uber had investigated coming to the island on ‘several occasions’ in the past, but had found issues with social security, income tax, and driver equality.
It is hoped the review will be completed in the next few weeks.
‘Hopefully, as a community and business, we can move forwards and it will help us to create a better industry.’
Environment & Infrastructure said a clear plan would be established.
‘Ensuring there is a sustainable taxi sector is one of the main aims of the taxi review which is taking place now and nearing its conclusion,’ a spokesman said.
‘We welcome the input of industry leaders who were also invited to contribute to the review, including the Guernsey Hospitality Association, so it will capture their views.
‘We hope to be able to put forward a clear plan for the taxi sector based on the review’s findings very soon.’