In order to legally operate, “pari” operators will have to adhere to the same regulations as licensed taxi operators, says Land Transport Authority chief executive officer Irimaia Rokosawa.
He said this could be facilitated through the opening of taxi permit applications.
“This can be facilitated through the opening of taxi permit applications whereby based on a thorough demand assessment taxi permits can be issued to applicants who meet the requirements, including ‘pari’ operators,” Mr Rokosawa said.
He said since the requirements for current taxi operators and any new taxi permit operators would be standard across the board, there would be no compromise in safety, both for the vehicles and the passengers.
“Current issues with the ‘pari’ are mostly on illegal operations, which can effectively be solved through ensuring a balance in demand and supply.
“The mere existence of a ‘pari system’ indicates that the current supply of taxis is not able to cater to the demands of the travelling public.
“Once this demand is satisfied, the primary basis of illegal operations would be removed.”
Transport Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau also said ‘pari’ operators would not have a separate public service licence. He said they would have to apply for the taxi permits.
“With that, there’s been some misconceptions,” Ro Filipe said.
“It’s interpreted that there will be a separate category of public service vehicle licence for pari operators.
“No, they need to apply for the taxi permits.
“I spoke about this within the current framework, which is either a hire permit or mini-bus or a taxi.
“So, they’ll need to apply for the taxi permit which will be rolled out soon.
“We need to regulate them.
“Ensure that they don’t have police records, that the standard of service is there, and they are monitored by LTA.”
