Vol. 563 No. 1
153 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Transport the progress made to date with regard to the implementation of the recommendations of the taxi hardship panel; when payments recommended will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7116/03]
On 17 December 2002 the Government approved the implementation on a phased basis of the recommendations of the taxi hardship panel in accordance with An Agreed Programme for Government.
The design and administration of a scheme to implement the recommendations of the panel will be carried out by a proposed commission for taxi regulation. This will ensure that applications are dealt with on a confidential and objective basis.
The preparation of the necessary legislation to support the establishment of a commission is proceeding as a matter of urgency in my Department. The post of chairman is the subject of consultation with the Department of Finance.
The commission, when established, will be tasked with the determination of criteria and conditions for the making of payments having regard to the categorisation and specific recommendations identified in the report of the panel. The commission will also invite applications and determine appropriate levels of payments within the amounts determined to be appropriate in the report. In pursuing this task it is envisaged that the commission will consult relevant Departments and agencies.
