On-demand airport minibus service 'meeting social needs'

Minister defends northern trial after taxi operator criticism

The Infrastructure Minister has defended a trial of on-demand minibus transport to the airport.

Ray Harmer says making Bus Vannin services more flexible could save money, and will meet the social needs of people in rural areas.

Earlier this week, taxi operators called the northern service 'unfair' competition to their trade.

But Mr Harmer argues leaving empty seats on vehicles providing patient transfers doesn't make sense.