Taxi operators at the Bridgetown Port have raised serious concerns over Uber and its franchise owner, Go Capita, allegedly breaching a government-imposed restriction that prohibits Uber pick-ups around the port area. This violation, they argue, is threatening their livelihoods and has reignited calls for stricter enforcement of taxi regulations. Adrian Smiley Bayley, president of the Bridgetown Port Taxi Co-operative, highlighted the issue during a press conference, stating that Prime Minister Mia Mottley had explicitly instructed Uber to cease operations near the port during a recent meeting with taxi operators. Despite this directive, an Uber-registered driver was reportedly seen picking up passengers directly outside the port gates last week. Bayley presented photographic evidence and emphasized that the incident occurred just six days after the meeting with the Prime Minister. He also revealed that an official report of the incident has been forwarded to Deputy Prime Minister Santia Bradshaw, who serves as the Minister of Transport. Raymond Gill, a representative of Go Capita, acknowledged the complaint and assured that the company would investigate the matter, suggesting that a technical glitch might have caused the breach. Bayley, however, remains steadfast in his demand for a fair resolution, vowing to continue advocating for a level playing field for all taxi operators. He also accused Go Capita of betraying its long-standing partnership with the taxi industry, particularly in relation to the Harbour Lights nightclub, which has benefited significantly from the collaboration with taxi operators over the years. Bayley concluded by urging the government to exert pressure on franchise owners operating in Barbados to ensure compliance with the established regulations.
