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08/05/2013
New Taxi Laws Set For September
New laws which will change the way taxis operate in Northern Ireland are to be introduced in September 2013.
Under the laws, all taxis will be allowed to stand and ply for hire and will no longer have to be pre-booked.
The change was initially planned for April 2013, but was put back by Environment Minister Alex Attwood in a bid to enable the industry to prepare.
Single tier licensing system will also allow drivers from outside Belfast to come into the city centre and work, which is intended to increase the supply of taxis in the city centre at peak times, particularly at weekends.
Minister Attwood said: "Having the ability to obtain any taxi without pre-booking will help to provide the public with more choice. It will also give those in the taxi industry more opportunities for business in these difficult economic times.
"I am also temporarily de-regulating taxi meters and fares for Belfast Public Hire taxis to bring them into line with the rest of the taxi industry. This will establish a level and fair playing field as Belfast Public Hire taxis will be able to charge competitive rates to consumers and will not have to adhere to taxi fares set by law. I am also looking at a package of measures to enable Public Hire to develop and enhance their business opportunities, consistent with the Taxis Legislation."
It will still be the case that within Belfast that only wheelchair-accessible vehicles will be permitted to stand at ranks.
The move marks the next phase of implementing the Taxi Act 2008, following the introduction of Taxi Operator Licensing in September 2012.
(IT/CD)
Under the laws, all taxis will be allowed to stand and ply for hire and will no longer have to be pre-booked.
The change was initially planned for April 2013, but was put back by Environment Minister Alex Attwood in a bid to enable the industry to prepare.
Single tier licensing system will also allow drivers from outside Belfast to come into the city centre and work, which is intended to increase the supply of taxis in the city centre at peak times, particularly at weekends.
Minister Attwood said: "Having the ability to obtain any taxi without pre-booking will help to provide the public with more choice. It will also give those in the taxi industry more opportunities for business in these difficult economic times.
"I am also temporarily de-regulating taxi meters and fares for Belfast Public Hire taxis to bring them into line with the rest of the taxi industry. This will establish a level and fair playing field as Belfast Public Hire taxis will be able to charge competitive rates to consumers and will not have to adhere to taxi fares set by law. I am also looking at a package of measures to enable Public Hire to develop and enhance their business opportunities, consistent with the Taxis Legislation."
It will still be the case that within Belfast that only wheelchair-accessible vehicles will be permitted to stand at ranks.
The move marks the next phase of implementing the Taxi Act 2008, following the introduction of Taxi Operator Licensing in September 2012.
(IT/CD)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
