'Most taxi drivers back fares plan': Deering

The majority of taxi drivers support the controversial scheme to fix a national fare structure, it was claimed today.

Taxi regulator Ger Deering defended the implementation of the new pricing system and his decision not to address a mass rally of drivers in the capital.

“As a regulator I cannot just listen to the voice of those who shout loudest,” he said. “It isn’t the way a proper regulatory process should work.

“It can’t be done on the basis of people trying to veto things by using their muscle. I have to listen to all the people involved and I have done.

“It’s about consultation, considering that consultation, and then making decisions and implementing them. I feel the idea of a mass meeting is not the best in a constructive way.”

Mr Deering’s refusal to address thousands of angry taxi men and women at a meeting in Dublin has prompted in a third strike of drivers on Monday week, who claim the pending fares will cost them €1.5m.

Around 10,000 drivers have also threatened to strike when the new structure comes into force next month, during the prestigious Ryder Cup golf tournament.

“As a national regulator I have a responsibility towards all people in the industry – all drivers, all operators, and all passengers,” continued Mr Deering.

“It is a small sector objecting to these changes – many drivers support them.”

On Monday, September 4, protesters will stage a seven-hour stoppage.

Drivers taking part in the nationwide strike, from 6am to 1pm, are being urged by union bosses to descend on the offices of the taxi regulator to voice their concerns.

The Irish Taxi Drivers Federation, National Taxi Drivers Union and Siptu - which represent 14,000 of the state’s 17,000 taxi drivers – are calling for members to drive in convoy from Phoenix Park to the office of The Commission for Taxi Regulation in Fitzwilliam Square.

The unions are against the introduction of minimum charges set at €3.80, or €4.10 at premium times, replacing the system where fares were set by individual local authorities. It will also see the abolition of luggage charges and a €1.50 hiring charge for pick-ups from Dublin Airport.

Mr Deering told RTE radio that while he acknowledged the importance of the Ryder Cup, recent reports that drivers were quoting passengers fares ranging from €23 to €62 for the same journey showed the needs for a national taxi fare.

“I issued an invitation to the leaders of the unions involved to come and meet me with their executives so we could have a constructive discussion,” he added.