In the coming days, the Regional Government’s decision to suspend the issuance of licenses for TVDE is expected to take effect. Regional Secretary, Pedro Rodrigues, has confirmed that a technical study will be carried out to ensure a balance between ride-hailing, taxis, and buses.
However, not everyone is happy with this decision.
The Regional Coordinator of ADN-Madeira, Miguel Pita, today expressed “indignation” at the Regional Government’s decision to suspend the issuance of new TVDE licenses until January, considering that the measure only aims to protect the taxi sector to the detriment of consumers’ freedom of choice.
“This measure, far from defending the superior interest of the Madeirans, has the sole objective of protecting the taxi sector, sacrificing the freedom of choice of consumers and the balanced development of mobility in the Region,” said Miguel Pita.
The head of ADN-Madeira accuses the Albuquerque Executive of applying different criteria depending on the sectors, criticising the fact that TVDE is restricted while allowing the “uncontrolled” growth of rent-a-car companies.
“While holding back the growth of modern, regulated and safe alternatives, the Regional Government remains silent in the face of the uncontrolled increase in rent-a-car vehicles,” said Miguel Pita, stressing that this sector “has grown exponentially, without any technical study, planning, or serious assessment of the impacts.”
According to the regional coordinator of the ADN, this situation results in “more vehicles in circulation, driven by people without knowledge of the specificities of Madeiran roads, more illegal parking and a growing wear and tear on our natural areas.”
Miguel Pita considers “the application of double standards unacceptable”, criticising the fact that the Regional Government prioritises the restriction of ride-hailing, which “offer intelligent mobility and choice to the consumer” – while “the real problems caused by the unregulated growth of rent-a-car are conveniently ignored.”
ADN-Madeira demands that “public mobility policies be made with people in mind and not installed lobbies,” arguing that the Region needs fair, balanced, and sustainable solutions, which guarantee both consumer protection and the preservation of the quality of life and natural heritage of Madeirans.”
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
