Ex-garda chief heads taxi council

The former Garda Commissioner is to head a new National Taxi Council launched today by Transport Minister Seamus Brennan.

Pat Byrne and his council will advise on issues such as quality standards, age of vehicles, safety, entry standards and a standard colour for taxis.

The 18-member council, including representatives of taxi drivers, police, tourism and consumer groups, met for the first time today.

Mr Brennan said the appointment of the council marked a further step towards delivering a professional taxi industry countrywide.

He added: “We are entering an exciting era for the taxi industry in Ireland. For the first time, dedicated legislation on taxis has been passed by the Dáil.”