Unions challenge regulator over new taxi fare system
And they disputed Mr Deering’s claim that “many, many drivers” support the new system that will operate from September 25.
Taxi drivers plan a seven -hour stoppage and mass rally in Dublin on Monday, September 4. It will be the third major disruption in recent months in protest at the plan.
Tommy Gorman of the National Taxi Drivers’ Union said the easiest way to test support for the structure was for the regulator to address the drivers and let them ask him questions.
Mr Gorman said that the “real war” would happen when the regulations took effect after midnight on September 25.
Drivers taking part in next month’s nationwide strike are being urged by union leaders to go in cavalcade to the regulator’s offices to voice their concerns. The unions, which represent 14,000 of the State’s 17,000 taxis, claim the changes will cost them €1.5 million.
Jerry Brennan, who represents SIPTU’s 2,500 taxi drivers, said Mr Deering never negotiated the structure with him. He said Mr Deering had stated he would not negotiate with the unions.
John Ussher of the Irish Taxi Drivers’ Federation challenged Mr Deering to come to a meeting and discover who spoke for the drivers.
Mr Deering stood over his pricing system yesterday.
