Vol. 538 No. 4
93 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he will introduce measures to ensure that persons with a criminal record cannot obtain PSV licences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18194/01]
Under the Road Traffic (Public Service Vehicles) Regulations, 1963 to 2001, the licensing of drivers of small public service vehicles continues to be the responsibility of the Garda Commissioner who must be satisfied that the applicant is a fit and proper person to hold a licence to drive a small public service vehicle. A refusal by the Commissioner of an application for the grant of a licence to drive a small public service vehicle may be appealed to the judge of the District Court having jurisdiction in the place in which the applicant ordinarily resides.
I have indicated that it is my intention to consult extensively with representatives of consumer groups, of disabled persons and of taxi service providers to develop further quality improvements for taxi services for the benefit of both the service providers and the general public alike in the medium term. These may include, if appropriate, further requirements for applicants for both small public service vehicle driver and vehicle licences.
