Ministry of Transport, Information Technology and Communications

Around 10% of all taxi service inspections end up with a ticket, said the Minister of Transport, Information Technology and Communications Danail Papzov today in a televised interview. In his words, in the period between 19^th and 29^th July Executive Agency “Automobile Administration” checked 2,574 taxis.

During the talk, it became clear that the new method for psychological screening is ready and will increase the psychological requirements for taxi drivers. The new method will pay extra attention to the driver’s level of risk, levels of self-control, binge alcohol use and a questionnaire assessing aggression will be introduced. On 1^st August the modifications to the methodology will be provided to all psychological laboratories in the country and will enter into force as of 5^th August.

Amongst the measures proposed by the Ministry of Transport, Information Technology and Communications, which were outlined in the respective parliamentary commission, is the introduction of a license tax for taxis. According to Minister Papazov, this will bring to light the business carried out by the taxi services. The Ministry has also proposed that in the event of alcohol use to permanently revoke the driver’s license to operate automobiles such as taxis.

Minister Danail Papazov announced yet again that the Bulgarian State Railways (BDZ) are in an extremely adverse condition. “BDZ’s total general obligations amount at 700 million Levs, 175 million of which are overdue.” he stated. Specific measures have already been identified to rescue the company through an equity-for-debt exchange method from BDZ to National Railway Infrastructure Company. According to him this will wipe the internal debt accumulated over the years.

A working group was set up with the participation of MTITC and the Ministry of Finance to discuss various options for debt rescheduling for BDZ and rescuing the enterprise. According to Minister Papazov, the good communication with the railway’s creditors has been restored and a new meeting was scheduled for early September. During the talks, it became clear that despite BDZ’s plight no redundancies will take place in the company.