Taxi drivers shrug off appeal to postpone protest

MOTORISTS have been warned to expect gridlock in Dublin today, with thousands of protesting taxis drivers set to bring traffic to a standstill on city roads.

The drivers have pledged to go ahead with their protest despite an appeal from a charity to postpone the protest.

The Irish Cancer Society said it was concerned the mass protests would effect the annual Daffodil Day collection, during which it hopes to raise €4.25 million for cancer services.

Taxi drivers refused, however, to call off their protest despite concerns the donating public would steer clear of Dublin’s streets and the city centre where charity volunteers will be collecting.

In a statement, the Irish Cancer Society acknowledged that taxi drivers have a right to demonstrate, but expressed fear the demonstration would take the focus away from Daffodil Day and make it difficult for people to contribute.

The society is encouraging members of the public to buy a daffodil today or to make a donation online by visiting www.plantadaff.ie. or by calling 1850 606060.

Funds collected will go towards free nationwide care services for cancer patients in hospitals and communities.

The charity pleaded with the main group behind today’s protest, Taxi Drivers for Change, to postpone its plans. “We know that the public is concerned about the taxi demonstration planned for tomorrow and how it might affect Daffodil Day, and if the public is concerned then the Irish Cancer Society is concerned,” it said.

Callers to RTÉ’s Liveline also pressed for the protests to be called off.

Taxi Drivers for Change spokesman Frank Byrne defended the group’s move, saying it had not known about the charity day. It was also too late to call off the protests, he said.

More than 2,500 taxi drivers took part in protests two weeks ago.

However, since then, a Government-commissioned report on the industry has concluded there should not be a moratorium on licence numbers, an issue drivers insist must be addressed.

Drivers are expected to begin protests from Swords by early morning, possibly converging on roads entering the capital by 8am where they will slowly make their way towards Merrion Square, next to Government buildings as well as the offices of the taxi regulator. Protests could continue up to 2pm.

A separate protest will be held by SIPTU taxi drivers at Dublin airport this morning, beginning at 7am.

Branch organiser Jerry Brennan pledged that his protesting members, expected to number more than 20, would not obstruct airport traffic.