Union: 3,000 taxis may be forced off roads by new regulations

The National Taxi Drivers' Union has claimed that up to 3,000 cars will be forced off the roads because of legislation requiring them to show that they have paid their tax.

The regulations will oblige drivers to produce tax certificates in order to renew their licences, which is done once a year.

The Department of Transport has said that the laws are aimed at promoting a safer and more professional service.

The union has said that the new rules will affect many part-time taxi drivers and up to 1,500 full time drivers who came into the trade with deregulation.