The Transport Authority is recommending that local ride-sharing taxi companies already compliant with its rules, be exempt from the ban imposed on all players in the transport sub sector.
The authority made the call in a statement on Thursday.
Chevon Campbell tells us more.
On Tuesday, Transport Minister Daryl Vaz ordered local telecommunications companies to ban all ride-sharing applications with immediate effect.
This follows concerns over the safety of the services provided through the applications.
Earlier this week, skeletal remains believed to be those of 29-year-old primary school teacher, Danielle Anglin were found in Salt River, Clarendon.
Ms. Anglin was reported missing on Monday, May 13. She reportedly took an In-Drive taxi on her way to work sometime after 5am that day.
After reviewing the operator’s concerns, the Transport Authority recommended removing any restrictions on local ride-hailing operators.
This will apply only to those who engage drivers and use vehicles that are compliant with the requirements of the Transport Authority for operating a public passenger service.
Managing Director of the Transport Authority, Ralston Smith, says they are satisfied with the systems local operators have in place.
The authority says it will submit to the minister its recommendation regarding those ride-hailing entities that are compliant.
It’s also recommending increased collaboration between itself and the police to assist in identifying ride-hailing entities that meet proper security standards.
International ride-haling operators will also be required to submit to existing requirements.
These will include establishing a local presence in Jamaica and engaging the Transport Authority to facilitate the vetting of potential drivers.
The Transport Authority says at present, Uber remains the only foreign-based provider to engage in discussions with the government.
It says Uber has already submitted a proposal coming out of a series of meetings held before the imposition of the ban.
Mr. Smith says the Authority still has some further analysis to undertake.
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