andMr. Moore asked the Minister for Local Government what plans he has in hand for the reorganisation of the Dublin taxi service.
72.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Taxi Service.
71.
andMr. Dowling asked the Minister for Local Government if it is his intention to introduce a more comprehensive system of examination for applicants for taxi licences with a view to ensuring a fairer deal for existing taxi drivers and the public.
I propose, with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 71 and 72 together.
As explained to a deputation of representatives of Dublin taximen which I met recently and which was introduced by the Deputies, a study of the report of a fact-finding committee set up to inquire into the taxi and hackney business is proceedings, with a view, as a first stage, to seeking higher standards for new public service licences for drivers and cars in the interests of traffic and safety.
While being most appreciative of the manner in which the Minister has tackled this problem, could he give us any idea when he will be in a position to make some more definite proposals for the improvement of the service?
I have already introduced an amending regulation which limits the issue of new licences to a fortnightly period occurring every three months. I propose to introduce new regulations shortly which will govern the issuing of new licences and I hope to be able to do this within a very reasonable period. I am, of course, concerned as the Deputy knows and as the deputation I met know, to ensure that those who derive their livelihood solely from taxi and hackney work will be provided with a reasonable standard of living from that livelihood and that they will have some security in their job.