Kingston, Jamaica- February 7, 2024. The Transport Authority says it has met with its stakeholders, contract carriage groups from across the country and they have indicated that there is no agreement in place with Uber, but rather, an offer is on the table, which is being reviewed.
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 wellbeing of persons who rely on these apps for public
transportation. The Authority reiterates 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.
In the meantime, the Authority says that
while it encourages diversity and engagement of technological solutions in
providing services, it should be noted that any attempt to circumvent the
provisions of the law will be taken as intent to operate illegally and not in
the interest of good order or safety.
Managing Director,
Ralston Smith of the Transport Authority 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 $200,000.00 or imprisonment for 2 months under Section
15B(1), for operating without a road licence.
The
Authority is encouraging commuters to report the licence plate number of any
vehicle they observe operating illegally (providing public passenger vehicle
services for a fee/fare without a red plate/road licence) by calling our toll-free
number 888-991-5687, Whatsapp
876-551-8196 or on our Travel Pal platform at Google Play Store or Apple Store.
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