Taxi Drivers Protest in Paris Against Patient Transport Price Cuts

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On December 3, 2024, nearly 500 taxi drivers demonstrated near the National Assembly in Paris, protesting against a proposed reduction in patient transport prices. The Barnier government aims to save 300 million euros on medical transports by forcing negotiations between taxis and Health Insurance, which could lead to imposed price cuts. Taxi drivers expressed concerns that this move threatens their livelihoods, particularly in rural areas where medical transport constitutes a significant portion of their income. The protest, organized by the Team Taxi collective, highlighted the drivers' opposition to online platforms like Uber Health, which they believe could undermine their economic model. The demonstration caused major traffic disruptions, resulting in nearly 500 kilometers of traffic jams in Île-de-France, particularly affecting routes like the A1, A12, and A13. Taxi drivers are demanding the abandonment of the new measures, protection against illegal competition from VTC platforms, and recognition of taxis as an essential public service.