Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 June 2023
185. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport if he will ensure taxi drivers who rent their plate are represented when filling the current vacancy on the advisory committee on small public service vehicles. [30296/23]
View answerThe Advisory Committee on Small Public Service Vehicles (SPSVs), also known as the Taxi Advisory Committee, was established under the Taxi Regulation Act 2013. The role of the Committee is to advise the National Transport Authority (NTA) and the Minister for Transport, as appropriate, in relation to issues relevant to small public service vehicles and their drivers.
The membership of the Committee is specified in Section 72(4) of the Taxi Regulation Act 2013. To ensure that the Committee can provide an informed view on relevant policy and regulatory matters, its composition is prescribed by legislation to ensure that it represents a broad range of interests and, insofar as is practicable, ensures an equitable gender balance between men and women, and equitable representation from both urban and rural areas. Drivers are important members of the Committee, and four positions are reserved to represent driver interests.
As I advised the Deputy in response to Parliamentary Question No. 37 on 31st May 2023, there are currently five positions filled by licensed SPSV drivers from across the country and I am satisfied that this ensures the Committee’s advice is informed by the perspective of drivers.
The NTA on behalf of the Minister, is seeking applications from suitably qualified candidates to fill the existing vacancy. This appointment will be made in accordance with the provisions of Section 72 of the Taxi Regulation Act 2013.
