Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 5 Feb 2003

Vol. 560 No. 4

Written Answers. - Taxi Regulations.

Pat Rabbitte

Ceist:

135 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Transport the Government's proposals for the implementation of the recommendations of the Taxi Hardship Panel; when the payments recommended will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2747/03]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

The Government is committed to the implementation of the recommendations of the Taxi Hardship Panel in accordance with the Agreed Programme for Government. On 17 December 2002, the Government approved the publication of the report of the Taxi Hardship Panel and the implementation on a phased basis of the recommendations of the panel by the Office of the National Taxi Regulator. The design and administration of a scheme to implement the recommendations of Taxi Hardship Panel will be carried out by the Office of the National Taxi Regulator as this will ensure that applications are dealt with on a confidential and objective basis.

The regulator, when appointed, will be tasked with the determination of criteria and conditions for the making of payments having regard to the categorisation and specific recommendations identified in the report of the panel. The regulator will also invite applications and determine appropriate levels of payments within the amounts determined to be appropriate in the report. In pursuing this task, it is envisaged that the regulator will consult with relevant Government Departments and agencies. The Office of the National Taxi Regulator will be established on a non-statutory basis as soon as possible in 2003 pending the enactment of legislation.

Question No. 136 answered with Question No. 86.

Question No. 137 answered with Question No. 99.

Question No. 138 answered with Question No. 98.