Taxi drivers concerned as All Island license moves a step closer

The Department of Infrastructure has been responding to concerns from taxi drivers as the All Island taxi license becoming law moves a step closer.

The Department of Infrastructure has been responding to concerns from taxi drivers as the All Island taxi license becoming law moves a step closer.

Taxi drivers say none of them want the new law but the government consultation saw 80% of respondents support it.

The driver who wrote to Community Culture and Leisure Minister MHK David Cretney is concerned they will lose their £30,000 investment in their licence plate, and will have to work more hours.

In response to the taxi driver the Department of Infrastructure have said that they have been advised that a sever lack of taxi's at closing time at weekends often leads to disputes and unrests s an All Island license would benefit drivers and customers.

They say if they proposal goes ahead then they have identified additional sites in the Douglas area where taxi's could pick up.

Minister Gawne said 'I do recognise this is a significant change for the industry and I have committed the Department to review the effects of this Order in 12 months.  I hope the industry will understand the need to modernise and recognise that in 2001 they were given 5 years to adjust to this change and essentially have enjoyed a further 5 year extension on top of that initial period of grace.'

If they get the go ahead, will come in effect in May.