Vol. 484 No. 2
134 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the issue of unlicensed drivers carrying passengers for hire or reward, which is adversely affecting the livelihood of legitimate hackney and taxi drivers; and the steps, if any, he will take to deal with this emerging problem. [21793/97]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that all vehicles which carry persons for reward must be licensed in accordance with the Road Traffic (Public Service Vehicle) Regulations, 1963, as amended. Responsibility for the issue of hackney and taxi licences is a matter for the local authorities. However, the Garda issue certificates of suitability for the vehicles, and issue public service vehicle drivers licences to suitable drivers.
The Garda are aware of the issue of unlicensed drivers. Eight prosecutions were brought by the Garda authorities in the past year. A number of complaints concerning the illegal carriage of persons have been made to the Garda. These are currently being investigated by the carriage office.
I wish to assure the Deputy that where evidence of such offences is available prosecutions will be taken and that the enforcement of the regulations will continue to receive a high priority.
