Minibus licence rules may be relaxed

If approved, it would bring licensing requirements more in line with the UK

Minibus licence rules could be relaxed in Guernsey in a move designed to help charities and community groups.

Currently, only an individual with a D1 driving licence is permitted to drive a minibus with a capacity of between nine and 16 seats.

The Committee for the Environment & Infrastructure said the voluntary sector was concerned obtaining a minibus licence could a barrier to providing community transport.

The proposed change, which is being put to the States for approval, would see those with a standard driving licence be allowed to drive minibuses when they are "used for community purposes and not-for-profit organisations, and not for hire or reward".

Deputy Adrian Gabriel, Vice-President of the committee, said: "We were determined to see if there was any way that we could alleviate this burden on local charities to support their vital work."

He said: "There are many people in Guernsey who 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.

"I'm pleased that we have agreed to bring a policy letter to the States on this in due course to make this practical change, but also as a government to show our willingness to partner and work closely with the third sector."

Wayne Bulpitt, chairman of the Association of Guernsey Charities, said: "We are delighted that Deputy Gabriel took onboard the feedback from charities at the workshop we hosted to explore the future of community transport."

If the proposal were to be approved by the States, it would bring licensing requirements more in line with the UK.