Infrastructure Minister has announced that a phased
review of taxi policy and legislation will commence.
The current licensing system was introduced following
implementation of The Taxis Act (Northern Ireland) 2008. The
first stage of the review will look at Class C Taxi
Licensing. Examples of Class C taxis are vehicles used for
chauffeur services, weddings, funerals, and courtesy transport.
Uber also operate under Class C.
Minister Kimmins said: “The taxi industry provides an
important service within our community ensuring people, including
the most vulnerable in society, have door to door access to work,
education, social engagements and medical appointments. I
appreciate that there are a range of issues currently affecting
the taxi industry in the North and I am committed to working with
the industry to address these.
“I am aware that the taxi industry, in particular the
wedding and funeral car sector, have been seeking a review of
Class C licensing for a number of
years. While a full review of the Taxi Act
would not be possible within the remainder of the current
mandate, I am pleased to announce a phased review commencing with
a review of Class C Taxi Licensing.
“This will provide an opportunity to listen to concerns
and consider options for improving the operation of Class C taxi
licensing in the North. In announcing this, I recognise the
importance of maintaining a professional taxi industry in the
North, improving passenger safety and customer service and
reducing illegal taxi activity.
“When this stage has been completed the next phase of the
review of taxi policy and legislation will consider access to
wheelchair accessible vehicles as this is another very
significant and important issue.”
Notes to editors:
- Details on taxi classification are available
at: Taxis and their services |
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