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Changes to the taxi industry caused by covid-19 have prompted the States to announce a wholesale review of how taxis are licensed and what they are allowed to charge.
The review will be undertaken by a specialist transport agency which will report its findings to the Committee for the Environment & Infrastructure.
The President of the Committee, Deputy Lindsay De Sausmarez, said that she and her members wanted to work closely with the Taxi Owners' Federation before deciding whether any changes should be made to legislation or policy which govern the operation of taxis and private car hire in the island.
She said the industry had "seen significant change and development as well as a gradual erosion of the number of taxi drivers in the island" during the pandemic. "The Committee therefore believes now is the right time to undertake a review.
“Taxi services operated in other jurisdictions, such as taxis on demand, taxi-related apps and taxi sharing, are all factors that will be considered within the review along with a focus on greener travel."
Pictured: Deputy Lindsay De Sausmarez, President of the Committee for the Environment & Infrastructure, said: “The taxi industry has been significantly impacted by the covid pandemic over the past couple of years."
Leon Gallienne, President of the Taxi Owners' Federation, welcomed the Committee's intention to work with drivers as part of the review.
“We want a system that will attract prospective drivers into the industry, offer them a sustainable living and boost the availability of taxis for customers, particularly during periods of peak demand," said Mr Gallienne.
“Current licensing measures control the number of operators permitted to provide taxi and private hire car services in Guernsey as well as the fare structures."
The reviewers will consult widely during their work. This will include consultation with people with mobility impairments who require taxis or private hire transport.
Islanders are invited to get involved in the consultation process by emailing guernseytaxis@taspartnership.com
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