HAMILTON, Bermuda – Bermuda is now a member of the International Association of Public Transport (UITP) Sustainable Development Charter. Larry Jacobs of the Ministry of Tourism and Transport signed the official documents in Lisbon of behalf of the Government of Bermuda.
The UITP is the international network for public transport authorities, operators and policy decision makers. The network incorporates all modes of public transport including metro, bus, light rail, suburban rail, and waterborne transport.
There are 3,100 members from 90 countries.
“It is fitting for Bermuda to take its place alongside members of the global community that have shown a commitment to sustainable public transport policies,” said Premier Dr. Ewart F. Brown who is also Minister of Tourism and Transport. “Bermuda is recognized as an international leader for its forward thinking policies on private car ownership, truck permitting, waterborne transport and other measures. This is a natural step for us.”
The Government’s Sustainable Development Unit falls under the Cabinet Office, an area where Premier Brown also has responsibility. Signing the UITP Sustainable Development Charter is consistent with the mandate of the Sustainable Development Unit.
In November 2007, the Premier announced Mr. Jacobs was selected to Chair UITP’s Waterborne Transport Committee – a prestigious committee of ferry service providers from around the world who sought to learn from public transport policies introduced in Bermuda.
Larry Jacobs of the Ministry of Tourism & Transport holds the recently signed international Charter on sustainability. Pictured left to right: Hans Rat, Secretary General of International Association of Public Transport; Ana Paula Vitorino, Portuguese State Secretary of Transport; Larry Jacobs; Roberto Cavalieri, President of International Association of Public Transport.
Mr. Jacobs said, “Bermuda was selected because of the comprehensive approach we took in planning and developing our high-speed ferry service. The international community has observed that we are developing a fast, comfortable and efficient ferry system that is a true alternative to the private car.”
Lindsey Barry, who manages the Waterborne Transport committee on behalf of the UITP, said, “What Bermuda has accomplished is being recognized by the UITP and other transport operators throughout the world. In particular, the planning process that was followed is of great interest to our members as are the unique operating conditions Bermuda faces due to your locale in the Atlantic.”
