Taxi drivers face on-the-spot fines under new codes

USERS of taxis, hackneys and limousines should begin to see significant improvements in service levels from September, an Oireachtas committee heard yesterday.

Drivers will face sanctions ranging from on-the-spot fines to revocation of licences in the worst cases, Taxi Regulator Ger Deering told the cross-party transport committee.

A new code of regulations will be introduced, and will be “strongly enforced” by both inspectors attached to the Commission for Taxi Regulation and the gardaí.

A new transparent and simplified taxi fare structure will be introduced, which will apply throughout the country, starting from September 25.

Currently, the initial charge when hiring a taxi ranges from €2.80 to €6, depending on which part of the country you are in. But under the new system, the initial charge will be €3.80 nationwide.

The amount of in-vehicle information provided will be enhanced, with all taxis and hackneys obliged to carry a designated display of customers’ rights.

All drivers will also be obliged to issue a receipt, with details of the duration and distance of the journey together with the licence number of the vehicle, the date, and the amount paid.

This receipt will be the starting point for customers who feel aggrieved at the service they have received. People will be able to make complaints via a low-cost telephone call, email or post.

Enhanced safety and security measures will also be introduced over the next 18 months, Mr Deering said.

In addition, a new code of good practice and mandatory skills development programme would be introduced for all drivers.

Completion of the skills development programme will be required for all new drivers in 2007 and all existing drivers on renewal of their small public service vehicle (SPSV) drivers’ licence from 2008.