Coalición Canaria Proposes to Remove Urban Taxi Fare in Antigua

The municipal group of Coalición Canaria in the Town Hall of Antigua has put forward a motion to eliminate the urban taxi fare. This proposal is set to be discussed during the upcoming regular municipal meeting at the end of this month.

Historical Context

The political initiative aims to address a longstanding demand from taxi associations, which has been on their agenda since 2022. Despite numerous requests, the local government has not provided any responses to these appeals, nor has the mayor, Matías Peña, addressed the concerns of this crucial sector.

Criticism of Local Government Inaction

David Alberto Guerra, the spokesperson for Coalición Canaria in Antigua, has been vocal in criticizing Mayor Peña, pointing out that he has “spent four years without responding to the sector.” Guerra highlighted the toll that these years of neglect have taken on the taxi industry, stressing that the fare has not been reviewed or regulated in 14 years. The last update occurred in 2012, when Guerra himself held the transport portfolio at the Town Hall.

Rising Costs in the Taxi Industry

In recent years, taxi operators have faced significant increases in operational costs. Essential expenses like fuel, tires, and vehicle maintenance have surged, making it increasingly challenging for taxi operators to sustain a viable business. Yet, Guerra notes, “during all this time, the Town Hall of Antigua has not taken this reality into account to adapt the regulations.”

The Call for Viability and Fairness

Recognizing the urgent need for reform, Coalición Canaria Antigua has underscored the importance of ensuring a viable taxi service that balances the needs of both professionals in the sector and the users. To achieve this, updating the fare structure is deemed essential.

The proposed motion seeks the cancellation of the urban taxi fare in Antigua. This measure aligns with actions taken by three other municipalities in Fuerteventura, which have successfully adopted similar policies. By phasing out the outdated fare, the local government aims to adapt the service to the current realities faced by taxi operators and ultimately improve the sustainability of the industry.

Aiming for a Balanced Approach

The proposal from Coalición Canaria aims not only to modernize the taxi fare system but also to provide a more equitable service for everyone involved. By addressing the increasing costs and ensuring competitive pricing, the intention is to foster an environment where both taxi drivers and passengers can benefit.

The forthcoming discussion on this motion marks a pivotal moment for local governance and public transportation in Antigua. As the debate approaches, the implications of these changes could resonate far beyond the taxi industry, influencing broader conversations about sustainability and local governance.