Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 April 2018
214. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on whether taxi enforcement officers have enough powers; his plans for additional powers in this regard; and the number of enforcement officers in place. [16971/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra215. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if taxi enforcement officers are available to work, inspect and enforce at night; and if so, the extent to which they are. [16972/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 214 and 215 together.
The regulation of the small public service vehicle (SPSV) industry is a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA). The Authority's functions, along with the functions of taxi enforcement officers, are established under the provisions of the Taxi Regulation Act 2013.
My Department has regular liaison meetings with the NTA regarding the full suite of the Authority's responsibilities, including the regulation of the SPSV industry and, as I understand that issues relating to enforcement powers have not been raised as a matter of concern in that context, I have as a consequence no plans to provide additional powers at this time.
As outlined above, the NTA is responsible for appointing taxi enforcement officers and issues relating to the availability of officers to work at night is a matter for them.
To be of assistance, I have referred your question to the Authority for their consideration and direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days
