28th March 2024
Barcelona News Catalonia News Main News

Taxi strike ‘negative impact’ on Barcelona tourism

The taxi strike in Barcelona that saw two major roads occupied by drivers for eight days has had “a totally negative impact” on the city’s image as a tourist destination. This, according to the president of the Association of Specialised Travel Agencies (ACAVe), Martí Sarrate.

Sarrate said that it is “incomprehensible” for a “necessary” public service to “block the centre of the city” and impede tourists’ mobility. He went on to criticise politicians who “consented”, allowing the sector to take up a “strong position.”

Taxis blocking Gran Via in Barcelona during the strike (ACN)

According to the ACAVe president, the taxi sector has to adapt to “the needs of new technologies,” and questioned the legality of the industrial action that could be resumed in September if the Spanish government doesn’t deliver on its promises.

Apologies

On Thursday, the sector apologised for any “collateral damage” caused by the strike and the mobilization of drivers that all but shut down two major roads in the heart of the capital.

“We apologise to city merchants and small businessmen who have been affected, as well as to the public,” said the sector’s spokesman Tito Álvarez at a press conference. “We consider ourselves part of this city,” he went on to say, highlighting that the industrial action was because they had no “choice” left.

Recent Posts

Spain’s Guardia Civil detain man for allegedly promoting IS terror online

News Desk

Spanish government takes 3% stake in Telefónica after Saudi deal concerns

News Desk

Vinícius breaks down while talking about racist insults he’s suffered in Spain

News Desk

Dani Alves released after paying €1m bail, awaiting appeal of rape conviction

News Desk

Spain’s High Court halts temporary suspension order of Telegram’s services

News Desk

At least three dead after migrant dinghy runs into trouble off south of Spain

News Desk

Leave a Comment