Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 February 2015
155. Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans for the implementation of Part 4 of the Taxi Regulation Act 2012 and the relevant Schedules; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that some gardaí have been meeting with some taxi licence holders and telling them they will be disqualified upon implementation; and if this is correct procedure. [4340/15]
View answerI have no role in the implementation of Part 4 of the Taxi Regulation Act 2013 which provides for mandatory disqualification from holding a small public service vehicle (SPSV) driver licence on conviction for specified serious offences. The specification of offences to which mandatory disqualification applies is based on the principle of ensuring the welfare and safety of passengers.
The disqualification has automatic effect under the Act. Where a disqualification arises from convictions obtained before the commencement of the Act, the disqualification is suspended for a period of 12 months. There is also a right of appeal under which the appropriate court can review a range of matters pertinent to the suitability of the appellant to be a SPSV driver.
I understand that, subsequent to the commencement of the Taxi Regulation Act 2013, the National Transport Authority, which is responsible for the regulation of the SPSV sector, contacted holders of SPSV driver licences advising them of the new provisions in relation to such mandatory disqualification and also informing them of the right to make an appeal to the courts where applicable.
