Taxi report to revamp industry

THE publication of the Government’s report on the
future of taxi regulation in Ireland has been praised on the Southside.

Deputy Michael Con­aghan (Lab) said the report would
help build public confidence in the industry and allow legitimate, full time
taxi drivers to earn a decent living.

“I would like to commend the sterling work undertaken
by Minister for Public and Commuter Transport, Alan Kelly, to tackle the many
issues facing the taxi industry,

? Deputy Conaghan said.

“This report recommends 46 key actions that will go a
long way to addressing the problems facing taxi drivers and customers alike.

?

According to Minister Kelly, the report aims to
address deficiencies in taxi regulation as part of a Programme for Government
commitment to review the sector.

“This is the most radical examination of the taxi
sector in Ireland ever,

? he said.

“The powers of the gardai will be extended,
with strengthened collaboration with the National Transport Authority for more
effective on street enforcement.

“We will also be tightening up on the rental sector,
removing criminal elements and creating
a much more robust system of regulation.

?

He added:

“The broad aim of this report is to increase
consumer confidence in the sector and eliminate the rogue elements. We also
want to ensure that legitimate and professional taxi operators and drivers can
be rewarded fairly by operating under a regulatory regime that is adequately
enforced. We want it to be a sector worth working in. This report will allow us to achieve this and
we have brought taxi regulation right back to the top of the transport agenda.

?

Deputy Conaghan said the industry could only gain from
the changes suggested in the report.

“The vast majority of taxi drivers and operators provide
a fantastic service, but have unfortunately been tarnished by the actions of a
minority,

? he said.

“New actions, as outlined in this report, will help combat
this and introduce a new industry standard.

“I particularly welcome the focus this report places
on safety, with initiatives to ensure that taxis are roadworthy.

?

He added:

“Problems with the taxi industry have needed
to be addressed for a number of years, and this action-orientated report is
another example of the Government delivering on its promise to reform.

“