Regulator faces tough job, says taxi union

The new taxi regulator faces a difficult job as standards in the industry have reached an all-time low, drivers warned today.

National Taxi Drivers Union boss Vincent Kearns welcomed the appointment of Gerard Deering to the new post of National Taxi Regulator, with responsibility for licensing and controlling the industry.

“We have reached an all-time low with the calibre of people being allowed in. Though an awful lot are decent, some undesirables have got in,” Mr Kearns of the National Taxi Drivers Union said.

Mr Deering said that would be a key issue for the new office and he will be speaking with the taxi advisory council, consumers and drivers on the issues.

“It is about improving standards. When that portion of the act comes into being shortly it would greatly strengthen that particular area and it is essential that we have a professional and safe service,” Mr Deering said.

“It is a small number of people within the industry which cause this problem but they can be weeded out very quickly.”

Mr Kearns, a member of the taxi advisory council headed by former Garda Commissioner Pat Byrne, said the appointment should have been made a long time ago.

He said the industry was now deregulated for almost four-years and the numbers have increased to 14,000.

Transport Minister Seamus Brennan today announced Mr Deering, 44, from Co Carlow, would be taking up the position outlined in the Taxi Regulation Act in September.

Mr Brennan said concern has been mounting for the safety of customers and drivers.

He said this was addressed in the Taxi Regulation Act 2003 and it will soon be made a legal order.

It outlines that anyone convicted for certain offences will not be able to get or hold a licence.

Under the legislation Mr Deering’s office will be responsible for setting the industry standards as well as the licensing, control and operation of the vehicles.

It would also carry out inspections of vehicles, set out a dress code for drivers, promote competition and adopt a national uniform colour for taxis.