Taxi operators union prepares to launch its own ride-hailing app, and doubles-down on the need for enforcement of regulations governing taxis and rideshare
The taxi operators union says it supports the potential boost to public transport through “additional PSV operators who will operate within a regulated framework”.
However, it is against the use of private vehicles as de facto taxis.
The union is also skeptical of sustained improvements if “longstanding systemic issues” remain unaddressed.
This comes as the BTOA is rolling out its own digital ride-hailing app – Journi. Once launched, Journi will be able to compete with Hitch and RideBermuda to channel fares to rideshare operators.
Bermuda Broadcasting reached out to the Bermuda Taxi Owners and Operators Association after the passing of amendments to the Motor Car Act in March. This enables the addition of up to 150 new rideshare operators to supplement the current taxi fleet.
The accompanying regulations were tabled last Friday, which would ensure rideshare operators can only respond to app-based callouts – no roadside hailing -, and give taxi drivers a 60-second window in which to respond to a digital callout before it is offered to ridesharers.
Asked if the public will benefit from more options if taxi drivers are not available, a BTOA spokesperson said: “The BTOA agrees that the public benefits from a transportation system that is reliable, accessible, and responsive.”
“However, simply increasing the number of operators does not automatically guarantee improved service. Public benefit depends on a well-regulated system that ensures fairness, reliability, and continuity of service across all operators.”
The BTOA reiterates that it does not oppose increased options “in principle”, but says if there is uneven enforcement or reduced obligations for certain operators, there are risks to service standards, reliability, and fair competition.
Among other things, the BTOA remains concerned over what it calls a “lack of enforcement over the past 20+ years, a “lack of collaborative engagement between the Government and the BTOA”, and a “lack of data collection and public reporting by the Transport Control Department”.
As for the 60-second ‘headstart’ given to taxi operators to claim an app-based call under new regulations, the BTOA says “prioritising licensed taxi operators is appropriate and aligns with maintaining an established, regulated service base.”
…but without consistent oversight, the union worries that the concept of ‘taxis first’ may not necessarily translate into meaningful industry protection.
Meanwhile, the BTOA itself is providing a platform for rideshare calls, with the planned island-wide launch of its own ride-hailing app, Journi, on May 15th.
Driver onboarding started yesterday, with business engagement from the 1st of May.
A press release states, “Journi Ltd is wholly owned by BTOA, with no external investors or private shareholders. Governance is retained within the local taxi industry, ensuring that decision-making reflects the realities of licensed owners and operators.”
Read the full Q&A between us and the Taxi Operators Union below…
Questions from Bermuda Broadcasting to the BTOA, sent March 19th following the passing of the Motor Car Amendment (answers provided March 27th):
What is the BTOA’s reaction to the passing of the Motor Car (Ride-sharing) Amendment Act 2026?
The BTOA was not surprised by the outcome; however, we are disappointed in the decision.
The Government has exercised its legislative authority, and the taxi industry must now turn its focus to the regulations that have been introduced, but not yet debated or formally tabled for full discussion.
This stage is critical, and we emphasise the importance of meaningful stakeholder engagement before implementation.
The BTOA will continue to seek collaboration with the Government, the Transport Control Department, the Public Service Vehicle Board, industry stakeholders, and the public to ensure the regulations are practical, fair, and enforceable.
The legislation could result in up to 150 new seasonal rideshare PSVs.
Does the BTOA agree or disagree with Minister Owen Darrell’s comments that this will “strengthen the [transport] system, not replace [the taxi industry]”?
The BTOA welcomes improvements in transportation availability, including extended service coverage and increased accessibility for the public and visitors.
We support the introduction of additional PSV operators who will operate within a regulated framework and provide public service.
However, we do not agree with the use of private vehicles transporting passengers for hire, as this has historically been restricted under Bermuda law.
Our position has remained consistent: the issue is not with the concept or label of “ride-share,” but with how it is implemented and regulated.
Our concerns remain focused on longstanding systemic issues, including:
• Lack of enforcement over the past 20+ years
• Lack of collaborative engagement between the Government and the BTOA
• Lack of response to formal and informal communications from the BTOA
• Lack of data collection and public reporting by the Transport Control Department
• Lack of transparency in the drafting and transition from the ride-share pilot programme to formal legislation
Without addressing these areas, it is difficult to conclude that the system will be strengthened in a balanced and sustainable way.
Ultimately, won’t the public benefit from having more transport options, such as rideshare taxis, if traditional taxis are not available or are unresponsive?
The BTOA agrees that the public benefits from a transportation system that is reliable, accessible, and responsive.
Increasing availability can be positive when it is supported by consistent standards, accountability, and proper oversight.
However, simply increasing the number of operators does not automatically guarantee improved service.
Public benefit depends on a well-regulated system that ensures fairness, reliability, and continuity of service across all operators.
If the BTOA does not believe the public will benefit from having more transport options, please explain why.
The BTOA does not oppose increased options in principle.
The concern lies in the structure and execution of those options.
If there is uneven enforcement, reduced obligations for certain operators, or a lack of long-term accountability, the system risks:
• Inconsistent service standards
• Reduced reliability during off-peak periods
• Unfair competitive conditions within the PSV sector
A strong and stable core taxi industry remains essential to ensuring year-round service and public confidence.
Minister Darrell says the government’s approach “supports a balanced transportation system: taxis first, rideshare when needed.”
Does the BTOA agree or disagree that giving taxi operators the first option ahead of rideshare operators ensures the current industry is protected?
In principle, prioritising licensed taxi operators is appropriate and aligns with maintaining an established, regulated service base.
However, the effectiveness of this approach will depend entirely on how it is implemented and enforced in practice.
Without clear operational guidelines and consistent oversight, the concept of “taxis first” may not translate into meaningful protection for the industry.
The BTOA and other taxi bodies have long argued for more enforcement of current laws against taxi operators and drivers that do not adhere to the requirements of their licenses.
Does the BTOA support stripping licenses from taxi operators that are in violation of current laws?
The BTOA supports enforcement and adherence to all acts, laws, and regulations.
We believe that accountability is critical to maintaining professional standards and public trust.
Where there are clear and repeated violations, and appropriate action should be applied in a fair and consistent manner.
Is the BTOA confident that Government will move to enforce current laws governing taxi operators?
The Government will likely move to enforce existing laws more visibly, particularly in the current environment.
We welcome this and look forward to fair and balanced administration.
We also expect transparency and would encourage formal public reporting on enforcement activity and outcomes in the months ahead.
At this time, we also remind all PSV operators to ensure full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
The BTOA remains available to support operators in understanding their obligations and navigating regulatory requirements.
Is the ‘lifetime’ taxi license part of the problem? Would a shift to shorter terms with reviews before renewals help to ensure taxi operators adhere to the requirements of their licenses?
The BTOA is open to discussions around mechanisms such as periodic reviews or performance-based standards, provided that any changes are implemented fairly, transparently, and with consideration for the significant investment made by current license holders.
Any reform must strike a balance between accountability and protecting the value and stability of the existing industry.
What happens now? Will the BTOA accept the new legislation, or can the public expect any industrial action in response?
At this time, BTOA members have not made any motions or taken any votes to pursue industrial action.
The focus moving forward is on constructive engagement, particularly as the regulations have been introduced but not yet debated or fully discussed.
This provides an important opportunity to ensure that the final framework reflects the operational realities of the industry and delivers a balanced outcome for all stakeholders.
