After eight days of protests, taxi drivers around Portugal have finally ended their demonstration against the so-called ‘Uber Law’ which, from November 1, will regulate digital platforms like Uber and Cabify.
The decision came on September 26 after PS finally promised to make a small amendment to the law, allowing councils to have more power when it comes to regulation and how the rules are implemented.
Florêncio Almeida, head of taxi drivers union ANTRAL, said it was a “very sad day” for the sector as it still hasn’t achieved a “complete victory”.
Still, he said he was happy that the country’s taxi drivers “showed all of Portugal” that the image people have of them is wrong, as most of the demonstrations were peaceful – despite reports of some taxi drivers insulting and spitting on vehicles that they believed to belong to Uber.
Speaking to reporters after a meeting with representatives from the taxi sector, PS MP Carlos Pereira said that this is “just the start” of a debate that may lead to a change in the legislation.
The taxi drivers’ protest started on September 19 and saw blockades forming in Porto, Lisbon and Faro, where dozens of taxis were stopped at main access roads including at the entrance to Faro Airport.
The taxi drivers are set against the introduction of the law which they believe puts them at a disadvantage against their rivals.
michael.bruxo@algarveresident.com
Photo: BRUNO PIRES/OPEN MEDIA
