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Taxi Regulations

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 February 2013

Thursday, 21 February 2013

Questions (273)

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

273. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will meet with representatives of the taxi drivers union as soon as possible to discuss their concerns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9379/13]

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Written answers

Before the establishment of the Taxi Regulation Review Group in 2011, I spent considerable time consulting the various taxi representative groups.  In addition, the review group which I personally chaired and which reported at the end of 2011, included industry stakeholders and representative bodies. I stated at the time that representation of the taxi sector was far too fragmented and I still believe that to be the case. I support any efforts by the various representative bodies to consolidate in order to provide a more unified representation of taxi drivers’ interests.

As part of the review itself there was an open consultation process and a number of the taxi representative groups made written submission and were given the opportunity to make oral presentations. The review group took account of the points raised through the consultation within the context of their deliberations. The review report makes recommendations concerning consultation with the industry in the future that is, through the Taxi Advisory Committee. 

However, we are at a key juncture in the implementation of the review proposals. The enactment of the Taxi Regulation Bill 2012, will mean that many of the enforcement related actions arising from the review will be rolled-out later this year. I am currently finalising my diary commitments and I anticipate having some discussions with taxi driver representative in the near future. I am in receipt of representations from taxi driver representatives and a reply will issue shortly.

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