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15/04/2009
Taxi Operators 'Could Do Better', Says Minister
The majority of taxis and their drivers are meeting their legal requirements, a Driver & Vehicle Agency survey has revealed.
NI Environment Minister Sammy Wilson (pictured) welcomed the results of a 2008 survey – the first of its kind in the British Isles - which showed over three quarters of the fleet are complying with the law.
However he insisted there was still considerable room for more improvement: "During the survey, 550 taxis were stopped where both the taxi and driver were assessed for compliance with the relevant legal requirements.
"Results from the survey indicate 76.7% of the taxis and drivers checked had no serious offences detected. However 23.3% had an offence which warranted further action.
"During the checks, the DVA discovered defective tyres, steering and lights in some cabs, invalid insurance and invalid taxi driver licences.
"While it is encouraging that the majority of taxis on Northern Ireland’s roads are compliant, there is still room for much more improvement," he said, noting that unroadworthy taxis and drivers who are not properly licensed or insured represent a risk to the general public.
"It is imperative anyone using a taxi must make sure that taxi is properly licensed and is displaying its plates," he concluded.
(BMcC/KMcA)
NI Environment Minister Sammy Wilson (pictured) welcomed the results of a 2008 survey – the first of its kind in the British Isles - which showed over three quarters of the fleet are complying with the law.
However he insisted there was still considerable room for more improvement: "During the survey, 550 taxis were stopped where both the taxi and driver were assessed for compliance with the relevant legal requirements.
"Results from the survey indicate 76.7% of the taxis and drivers checked had no serious offences detected. However 23.3% had an offence which warranted further action.
"During the checks, the DVA discovered defective tyres, steering and lights in some cabs, invalid insurance and invalid taxi driver licences.
"While it is encouraging that the majority of taxis on Northern Ireland’s roads are compliant, there is still room for much more improvement," he said, noting that unroadworthy taxis and drivers who are not properly licensed or insured represent a risk to the general public.
"It is imperative anyone using a taxi must make sure that taxi is properly licensed and is displaying its plates," he concluded.
(BMcC/KMcA)
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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.
