Taxi Drivers’ Anger: Bayrou Opens Door to Revising Patient Transport Agreement

After a week of nationwide protests, taxi representatives were received on Saturday, May 24, at the Ministry of Transport in the presence of Prime Minister François Bayrou. Following the meeting, described as “constructive,” the head of government announced that the details of the new patient transport agreement would be reworked.

A Controversial Reform at the Heart of Taxi Drivers’ Concerns

This reform, scheduled to take effect on October 1, establishes a standard coverage of 13 euros by the Health Insurance, followed by a per-kilometer fare. The measure aims to curb the rising costs of medical transportation, which reached 6.74 billion euros in 2024. Taxis under contract account for 3.07 billion of this amount — a 45% increase since 2019.

However, for drivers, especially in rural areas where these rides make up a significant part of their income, the reform threatens their economic model. They demand the withdrawal of the reform and the opening of new negotiations. Facing mounting pressure, François Bayrou expressed willingness to consider their proposals to achieve savings “without compromising patient care.”

Toward a New Phase of Negotiations

A consultation process is set to begin Tuesday. “It is necessary to work together to find possible solutions,” the Prime Minister said, emphasizing that adjustments will be considered to address concerns raised on the ground.

Among the drivers, the reaction remains cautious. “It’s not enough, but it’s a start,” said Sandra Vialatta, president of the Loiret Taxi Federation. Others, like Emmanuelle Cordier, president of the National Taxi Federation (FNDT), warn of escalating protests: “If nothing changes, there will be blockades at Roissy and Orly airports starting Monday. And we will go beyond blocking roundabouts,” she warned on BFMTV.

Despite the tensions, the government remains firm on budget goals. On Friday, government spokesperson Sophie Primas reminded that the reform aims for 2% savings in a rapidly growing sector: “There is no question of backtracking.”