Taxi drivers mount 24-hour nationwide stoppage

Taxi drivers across the country have begun a 24-hour stoppage this morning as part of their campaign for a cap on the number of taxi licences being issued.

The action, which has been organised by the non-union group Taxi Drivers for Change, began at 4am and is due to continue until the early hours of tomorrow morning.

The drivers, who are planning to park their vehicles at ranks in all main towns and cities today, have already mounted a series of protests in an effort to secure a moratorium on the issuing of new licences.

They claim the huge number of taxis on the roads is affecting earning power, with many drivers having to work up to 80 or 90 hours a week to make a decent living.