Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 December 2012
687. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if, in relation to the taxi review and new regulation, he will defer the introduction of branding to allow the taxi representative group to make referrals to the advisory committee on small public service vehicles as per Action 34 of the review report and as recommended by the taxi review board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54307/12]
View answerAction 31 of the Review Report proposes the introduction of a distinctive branding on taxis and wheelchair accessible taxis by means of a semi-permanent decal to be applied to the doors on either side of the vehicle, incorporating the umbrella 'Transport for Ireland' design. The aim of the branding is to provide greater recognition of taxis, promote greater professionalism of the industry and to reduce the potential for unlicensed vehicles to operate as taxis. The timeframe for introducing taxi branding as proposed in the Review Report, signalled that this action would be rolled-out within a year.
Responsibility for the implementation of this recommendation falls under the ambit of the National Transport Authority (NTA) as does the date of its proposed introduction. I understand that the NTA has, since October, supplied information on its website concerning the taxi branding, which will be an application requirement for new vehicle licences and renewal of existing vehicle licences from January 2013. I further understand that the NTA consulted with the Taxi Advisory Committee in relation to the introduction of this measure and I am informed that their proposals took account of the advice of the Committee. As such I do not consider that there is any case for deferring the implementation of this progressive measure.
