Vol. 513 No. 3
219 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he will address the concerns of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12 in relation to the taxi licence issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2306/00]
The following is my position in relation to the concerns stated in the details to the question: I have raised the issue of the removal of VRT and VAT from wheelchair accessible taxis with my colleague, the Minister for Finance. Concerns have been expressed to me by taxi interests about the need to improve taxi fare structures in the Dublin taximeter area and I have agreed to take this issue up with the competent Dublin local authorities. For the purpose of the implementation of the Government proposals for increased taxis in Dublin no alteration of the current Dublin taximeter area is envisaged. The organisation and marketing of taxi services are primarily matters for the taxi industry. I have, however, indicated that my Department is prepared to offer support for the carrying out of an integrated study on desirable improvements in the quality of taxi service operations. On 13 January 2000 I made regulations which establish an application process for all existing taxi licence holders in Dublin to apply for the grant of either a taxi or a wheelchair accessible taxi licence from Dublin Corporation. Applications must be received by the corporation on or before 18 February 2000. In the light of the responses which emerge I will be prepared to consider further the arrangements for allocating licences under the scheme which I will finalise shortly. The above regulations are intended to address taxi licences for issue in the present year and suspend the delegation of certain powers to Dublin local authorities. It is however envisaged that Dublin Corporation should re-assume full regulation of taxis and maintain the equilibrium of taxi supply and demand into the future.
