No agreement in place between Uber and taxi associations - Transport Authority
Published:Wednesday | February 7, 2024 | 10:08 AM
The Transport Authority says contract carriers in Montego Bay, St James, have stated that they have no agreement with Uber for the provision of services under the technology company's Uber Taxi option.
In a media release on Wednesday, the Authority said it met with contract carriage groups from across the country who indicated that an offer is on the table, but that it is being reviewed.
Uber recently stated that Uber Taxi, which is now available in parts of Hanover, Westmoreland, St James, Trelawny, and St Ann, is a collaboration with the Montego Bay-based Maxi Taxi Association.
It said users will now be able to request taxi services from contract carriage drivers affiliated with Maxi Taxi easily, via the Uber app.
In its release, the Authority reiterated that all motor vehicles transporting passengers for a fee must have the requisite road licence and the drivers should display a badge issued by the Transport Authority.
The Authority "expressed concerns about the lack of mechanism associated with Uber's platform to properly screen both vehicles and drivers, to ensure the protection of the rights and well-being of persons who rely on these apps for public transportation."
The Authority said while it encourages diversity and engagement of technological solutions in providing services, any attempt to circumvent the provisions of the law will be taken as intent to operate illegally.
Managing Director of the Transport Authority, Ralston Smith, is urging operators who have intention of transporting commuters for a fee to apply for their road licence as they could be fined up to $200,000 or imprisoned for two months under Section 15B(1), for operating without a road licence.
The Authority is also encouraging commuters to report the licence plate number of any vehicle they observe operating illegally.
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