We are fighting for our very survival, a taxi driver told me yesterday as they announced strike dates for next month and April. The cabbies are fighting plans by the Balearic government to introduce a direct bus service to the resorts from Palma airport. They claim that most of their income comes from lucrative fares from the airport during the summer months and they need this cash to survive during the winter. Yes, I can see their point, really.
I think that overall everyone believes that the bus routes are a good idea. The service will make life easier for tourists, especially those on a budget. But why now? Why have the Balearic government all of a sudden decided to take on the cabbies? I suspect that only a small number of tourists will take the bus. Granted it is an alternative to the taxi, but I suspect that the majority of "independent travellers" will either hire a car or take a cab.
I would urge the Balearic government to resolve this dispute quickly. One of the suggestions from taxi drivers is to strengthen the existing airport to the main bus station service. If I was the Balearic government I would leave well alone. The Balearics is on course for a record summer season and the last thing the island needs at the moment is a big transport dispute. There is a simple solution - dialogue. Let both sides sit down and find a solition. It is certainly the way forward.