Covid-19 Pandemic

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2020

Tuesday, 23 June 2020

Questions (696, 730, 735)

Eoin Ó Broin

Question:

696. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the advice of his Department with regard to the installation of protective screens in taxis; if such screens are considered an adaptation of the vehicle; if their installation needs to be carried out by a certified professional; the way in which and the body that certifies such persons; and if he has engaged with the motor insurance industry on this issue to ensure that taxi drivers do not experience difficulty in renewing their insurance following the installation of such screens. [12276/20]

Paul Donnelly

Question:

730. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if properly fitted safety screens installed in taxis to protect the driver and passenger from the spread of Covid-19 will not be a factor in taxis not passing the suitability test. [12532/20]

Richard Boyd Barrett

Question:

735. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the way in which taxi drivers can protect themselves from Covid-19 without protective screens in view of the fact insurance companies will not insure the car with the protective screen as the screen is not safe in case of an accident; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12559/20]

Written answers

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

I propose to take Questions Nos. 696, 730 and 735 together.

The Deputy may wish to be aware that the National Transport Authority (NTA), as the statutory regulator for the SPSV sector under the Taxi Regulation Act 2013, published information for the SPSV industry which includes Advisory Guidelines on Temporary COVID-19 Dividing Screens on 18 May 2020. This document is available on the NTA's website (www.nationaltransport.ie/taxi-and-bus-licensing/advisory-guidelines-temporary-covid-19-dividing-screens/).

Given the role of the NTA as regulator, I have referred your question to the Authority for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.