I propose to take Questions Nos. 593 and 594 together.
The regulation of the small public service vehicle (SPSV) industry is a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA) under the provisions of the Taxi Regulation Act, 2013. My role relates to the overall policy for the sector.
There have been many changes to the policy framework for the sector in recent years through the implementation of the recommendations of the Taxi Regulation Review Report, 2011. In particular the introduction and commencement of the Taxi Regulation Act 2013, together with the new SPSV regulations introduced by the NTA, gives the necessary legal underpinning to many of the actions recommended in the Review Report. The aim is to allow consumers to have confidence in the SPSV sector while also ensuring that legitimate and professional taxi operators and drivers can be rewarded fairly by operating under a regulatory regime that is adequately enforced.
I have referred your specific queries regarding the costs associated with setting-up in the SPSV industry to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not get a response within 10 working days