PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of TEATT said on Wednesday that the Ministry has been actively addressing the two ongoing investigations by SOAB and the Integrity Chamber regarding public transportation.
The Ministry has formally responded to the draft report from SOAB regarding issuing bus and taxi licenses in 2023, and they are in the final stages of preparing a response to the Integrity Chamber report.
Additionally, the Confirmation Process, which concluded on Tuesday, February 25th, 2025, has provided critical data to pave the way for a comprehensive reform of the public transportation industry. As of February 25, the Ministry received approximately 500 applications for the confirmation letter process:
- 342 taxis (65%)
- 100 buses (45%)
- 27 vehicles (T and G plates) from various companies (65%)
- 9 car rental companies (35%)
This process was essential in ensuring compliance within the transportation sector while maintaining high operational, safety, and legal standards.
The Ministry will carefully analyze the recommendations and collected data in the coming weeks to determine the way forward. A significant industry-wide reform is on the horizon, with new policies and regulations to prevent oversaturation and ensure proper regulation within the sector.
This Government remains dedicated to fostering a well-structured, efficient, and compliant public transportation system that benefits all stakeholders and the people of St. Maarten.
