Ragoussis makes amendments disregarding presidential decree

Mr Ragousis, the new Infrastructure minister, shuts his eyes to his predecessor’s actions for the second time in the past few days and initiates new policies concerning taxis, thus leaving them open to free market processes.

“I was unable to sign a presidential decree that would leave the profession a hostage to governmental manoeuvres”, said the minister to the press, underlining that already starting from July 2 all parties interested in buying a taxi can apply for a license.  However, he mentioned nothing concerning the details that will frame the new situation.

Ragousis clarified that there have been many mishandlings on the matter over the past years and that at some point the market will have to do a self-reset. He was clear when saying that it is not under the ministry’s jurisdiction to decide how many taxis each prefecture will have.

The Pan-Hellenic Taxi Federation representatives appear numb after the minister’s announcement and say they were completely unaware of Ragousis’ decisions, which disposes of all deals that were agreed upon between the ministry and themselves in the previous months.  

Moreover, Ragousis announced Wi-Fi internet access to the public, initially only at metro stations. The cost will be shouldered by special transportation sponsors, though dissident voices speak of expensive new “issues” at troubled times for public transportation in the country. Nevertheless, the minister reassured everyone of the plan’s low cost, also saying that the sponsor will be chosen by means of a competition.