Residents of Taboga Island met with the People's Defender, Eduardo Leblanc, to discuss the problem of rising ferry fares and the differences between the companies providing the service.
Leblanc, who traveled to the island to mediate the situation, stated that without competition, fares will not go down. He urged opening the door to new operators, as this is the only way to truly lower tariffs.
«It is essential to promote free competition so that users have access to fair prices,» he indicated.
He also proposed that the City Council evaluate a resident ID card for Taboga, which would allow them to pay a lower, approved fare.
The Defender noted that the community acted in a civic and respectful manner, despite the unrest over the transportation issue.
«Total respect for the people of Taboga; their willingness to dialogue demonstrates a real commitment to democratic coexistence,» Leblanc said.
Leblanc informed that they are in talks with ACODECO to review whether there are issues of free competition and to better understand why fares are increasing.
Residents also took the opportunity to present other pressing concerns: garbage management, conditions in schools, children's issues, and even complaints of evictions without due process by some business owners.
The Defender promised to follow up on each case.
Residents of Taboga also pressured the City Council to finally issue a document that identifies residents and allows for differentiated tariffs.