Mr. Speaker,

I rise today to provide this Honourable House with an update regarding the implementation of ridesharing in Bermuda, which officially launched on 10 June 2026 as part of the Government’s broader transportation modernisation initiative.

Mr. Speaker,

The introduction of regulated ridesharing has been designed to complement Bermuda’s existing public transportation network and taxi industry by helping address longstanding transportation gaps, particularly during peak demand periods, evenings, weekends, holidays, and major events.

From the outset, this Government has been clear in its approach: taxi first, rideshare when needed.

Mr. Speaker,

I am pleased to advise this Honourable House that the initial implementation phase is progressing positively.

To date, the Transport Control Department (TCD) has received approximately 79 applications for ridesharing permits. Of these, approximately 19 applicants have successfully met the requirements for approval. At this stage of the process, approved applicants are required to remit payment for their permit, licence plates, decal, and operator’s badge. Of the approved group, approximately 17 individuals have completed all required payments.

Mr. Speaker,

The remaining 16 applicants are currently at the pre-approval stage. This stage requires applicants to complete final requirements such as vehicle inspections and purchasing the necessary enhanced insurance coverage.

In addition, approximately 20 individuals have now obtained a Public Service Vehicle Licence, enabling them to be considered for participation in Bermuda's ridesharing programme.

Mr. Speaker,

Taxis continue to play a vital role in providing transportation for our residents and visitors. As such, it remains important to monitor participation within the sector. As of 5 June 2026, 72 of the 108 previously unlicensed taxis had renewed their licences and returned to service.

Data shared by a despatch stakeholder indicates that transportation activity accelerated following the ridesharing legislative announcement. Year-over-year growth increased from approximately 34% prior to the legislation announcement to approximately 52% thereafter, suggesting increased participation across the transportation sector and improved transportation availability for residents and visitors.

Mr. Speaker,

This reflects precisely what this Government intended - a regulated, balanced transportation model that improves service availability for the public while continuing to prioritise and support Bermuda’s taxi industry.

All ridesharing operators remain subject to Government oversight, including PSV licensing requirements, vehicle inspections, insurance requirements, and operational standards established by the Transport Control Department and the Public Service Vehicle Licensing Board.

Mr. Speaker,

As previously communicated, the ridesharing framework includes a maximum of 150 permits during this initial phase.

Given the public interest shown to date, applications will continue on a rolling basis and will be processed on a first come, first served basis until the permit cap is reached.

The Ministry, TCD, and industry stakeholders will continue to monitor implementation and support operators as the programme expands across the island.

Mr. Speaker,

The timing of this launch is especially significant as Bermuda enters the busy summer tourism season, including Carnival in Bermuda and other major events that generate increased transportation demand across the island.

This initiative helps ensure Bermuda is better positioned to move residents and visitors safely, efficiently, and reliably during periods of peak activity.

The Ministry will continue to monitor implementation closely, engage industry stakeholders, and make operational adjustments where necessary to ensure the initiative continues to serve the broader public interest.