Charities welcome States debate on minibus licences

Currently, a D1 driving licence – which can only be obtained if a specific practical and theory test is taken – is required to drive a minibus with a seating capacity between nine and 16 seats.

The policy letter asks the States to agree to a change in legislation to allow D1 minibuses to be driven by those who hold a standard car licence, provided that the minibus is only used for community purposes and not-for-profit organisations.

‘It’s a massive relief to see the letter has been submitted,’ said Guernsey Voluntary Service transport coordinator Cheryl Lowe, who raised the issue last year.

‘Some of our drivers who have small- seater buses have been asking whether there is any update, so it’s a relief to know there is. It will be a relief for a lot of charities.

‘It will help us in terms of our having more bus drivers to cover the bigger minibuses.’

The deadline for the final policy letters of current political term to be submitted is today.

Under these proposals, an application for the D1 category would still need to be made by an individual, as an upgrade or enhancement to their existing car licence. This would enable the committee to understand the levels of demand and ensure that licence holders continue to meet the conditions required.

The proposal also includes a weight restriction on the vehicle. If these proposals were to be approved by the States, it would bring licensing requirements more in line with the UK.

‘As soon as this matter came to my attention at a charity sector workshop on community transport, we acted to see what could be done to support this vital work,’ said Environment & Infrastructure vice-president Adrian Gabriel.

‘So many people in our island depend on community transport provided by our local charities who voluntarily serve some of the more vulnerable people in our community, many of whom have no other means of transportation.

‘We’re pleased to be able to bring a potential solution before the States so that this important work can continue uninhibited, and also to build on our partnership more closely with the charity sector.’

Association of Guernsey Charities chairman Wayne Bulpitt was pleased to see that the letter has been submitted.

‘We were really pleased that Deputy Gabriel took onboard the feedback from charities at the workshop we hosted to explore the future of community transport and are grateful for the work that has taken place since, including with commissioning lead Stephen Roberts, to find a practical solution,’ he said.

‘We are delighted to see the policy letter come forward and hope the proposals will be supported by the States to provide a pragmatic solution in the interests of our community, highlighting the benefits of collaboration between government and charities for the benefit of our community.’