Taking a cab? It will cost more on Thursday

Cab fares will rise by 25 per cent from tomorrow.

The move was announced by the Government in March as part of a major overhaul of the industry.

And the changes, which also include an increase in the number of passengers taxis are permitted to carry from six to seven, will officially take effect from May 1.

The fare rate, which is set by Government, has not been increased in more than six years.

Transport Minister Shawn Crockwell previously stated: “Whilst this may appear to be exorbitant in the current economic climate, taxi fares have not been increased since December, 2007.

“There will be no increase to the waiting time for the first five minutes — this will remain free.

“However, each subsequent period of three minutes or part therefore will increase from $1.30 to $1.60. The first one-fifth of a mile will increase from $4.15 to $5.15 and from .45 cents to .55 cents for each subsequent one-fifth of a mile or part thereof.”

The changes will also allow taxi drivers to display advertising material in their cabs to help generate revenue.

Sightseeing tours will increase from $40.00 to $50.00 for one to four passengers and $55.50 to $70.00 for five to seven passengers.