Recruitment Agency Decries New Cab Rules Requiring EU Licenses, Warns Of Driver Shortages
A recent announcement by Transport Malta introducing new regulations requiring foreign cab drivers to hold an EU driving license has sparked heated debates and concerns among cab fleet owners and drivers.
The change means that drivers from outside the European Union will no longer qualify for the Transport Malta-issued tag for Y-plate drivers and will be required to undergo a driving test to operate cabs in Malta.
The move has left the cab industry in the country divided, with some praising it for improving safety standards while others are warning of potential shortages and negative consequences for the sector.
The Times of Malta reported that one of the prominent voices expressing concern over the new regulations is Matthew Narusevicius, CEO of WFDM, recruitment agency proprietor that employs drivers working on popular ride-hailing apps like Bolt, Uber, and eCabs.
The new rules will lead to a shortage of cabs and drivers in Malta, reminiscent of the situation a decade ago when people faced challenges in getting cabs, and there was no guarantee that they would arrive at the time expected.
One of the main criticisms put forth by Narusevicius is that Malta is a touristic country, heavily reliant on cab services to cater to tourists’ transportation needs. With the influx of tourists, demand for cabs increases significantly, making it essential to have an adequate supply of drivers and vehicles to meet these demands.
The new regulations might deter foreign cab drivers from migrating to Malta for work, creating a vacuum in the sector and potentially affecting the quality of service provided.
Narusevicius also highlighted that the waiting period for obtaining a driving license in Malta is already months long. The new regulations are likely to exacerbate this situation, leading to longer waiting times for aspiring cab drivers to obtain their licenses and start working legally. This delay could further contribute to the shortage of cabs on the roads.
Additionally, companies that import cars stand to lose due to a decrease in demand for new vehicles, as fewer foreign drivers will be eligible to work in the cab industry. This could have a broader economic impact, affecting businesses and jobs related to the automobile industry.
Another point of contention raised by Narusevicius is the increased enforcement efforts by Transport Malta and LESA (Land Enforcement and Security Agency), which he perceives as a “witch hunt” targeting cab drivers.
He claims that drivers are being stopped daily for document checks, inspection of emergency equipment in their vehicles, and even verifying their attire. The enforcement measures, according to Narusevicius, have created fear among cab drivers and added pressure to an already challenging work environment.
On the other side of the argument is Aron Gatt, representing the Light Passenger Transport Service (LPTS) association, who believes that the new regulations should go even further.
Gatt insists that tags should be revoked for drivers holding only international driving licenses, emphasising road safety concerns and the need to ensure that all drivers are competent to drive on Maltese roads.
Transport Malta has justified its recent surge in cab inspections, stating that regular checks are crucial for maintaining road safety and ensuring compliance with regulations. The agency aims to uphold the law and provide a safe environment for the general public and transportation service users.
The cab company eCabs, which operates in Malta, has stated that it has always been fully compliant with the laws and regulations in the sector. While acknowledging the impending changes in the legislation, they have refrained from making definitive comments on how it might impact their services until the new regulations officially come into force.
As the discussions surrounding the new regulations continue, stakeholders in the cab industry remain divided on the potential outcomes.
While some believe that the measures are necessary for enhancing safety standards and reducing exploitation, others worry about the impact on the availability of cabs, potential economic repercussions, and challenges in meeting the transportation needs of tourists and locals alike.
Striking the right balance between safety and maintaining an efficient cab service will be crucial as Malta moves forward with these new rules.
Do you agree that TCN drivers should be licensed in Malta or the EU?
READ NEXT: Watch: From Adrian Zammit To Junior B, Maltese Society Unites Behind Tonight's Jean Paul Sofia Valletta Rally
