MARIGOT–The Collectivité has addressed in a communiqué what it describes as a “chaotic” situation pertaining to illegal transportation of persons.
“Many persons are practising this activity without the proper documentation or authorisation from the local government in charge,” it said. “Any persons apprehended in doing so will be subject to a fine and severely punished by means of law.
“It is reminded that taxi activity, bus driving, tour bus driving, VIP services, private transportation services by means of a small seater or a large-seating vehicle must be done within the rules and regulations in place in the territory.
“In the first instance, it is imperative to address the situation of those many drivers operating illegal private transportation services. Such activity must be done with an authorisation or declaration issued by the government.
“A private transportation service refers to transport of persons as regulated by Décree n°87-242 dated April 7, 1987, pertaining to conditions under which such activity can be undertaken. Private transportation services consist of free transport of persons and cannot be operated for tourism or leisure purposes.
“This activity is not to be confused with that of a private chauffeur who must, within the confines of the law, be declared and authorised by the Collectivité as a taxi or VIP driver.”
Following are some examples of private transportation services: free transportation for staff members within a business operation; free transportation for the benefit of association members; free transportation by public institutions for their staff members or specified citizens.
Private transportation services are executed with a vehicle belonging to the organiser, rented by the organiser, or via services contracted by the organiser with a legally declared transportation business duly inscribed on the Transportation Register of the Collectivité of St. Martin. In this context, persons executing pick-ups at the Port or Airport must present their permit from government to do so.
For further information, interested persons are asked to contact the Transportation Department of the Collectivité, located at 6, Rue du Fort Louis (at the old hospital premises). Tel. (0590) 52. 27. 30.
Source: The Daily Herald https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/83035-collectivite-addresses-illegal-transportation-of-persons
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