E&I’s measures have improved industry, says taxi association
THE taxi industry locally has turned a corner, according to the association which represents drivers.
An independent report produced last summer for Environment & Infrastructure concluded that the industry was ‘not fit for purpose’ and required ‘radical change’.
But the Taxi Drivers’ Association believes that measures introduced by E&I in response to the report are delivering improvements for passengers, taxi companies and drivers.
E&I has issued 90 new permits in the past seven months since making changes to the licensing regime.
‘Prior to this change, the process for obtaining a public service vehicle licence was time-consuming and costly and it meant that potential drivers were faced with costs and lengthy waiting times before they could start earning a wage,’ said Nicki Bessin, who leads the association.
‘The removal of the island knowledge and driving components have meant the onus has been placed on the employer to train newly-qualified staff. The result of this decision has meant an initial flurry of new drivers to the industry, which has seen benefits in a number of areas.’
Ms Bessin said more taxis were now available for locals and visitors, queues at the Weighbridge rank have been reduced, especially late at night on weekends, and companies and individuals with taxi plates were finding it easier to recruit drivers.
But she acknowledged that some experienced drivers felt they had lost out under the new regime.
‘There are a number of drivers who may be adversely affected by the new measures, particularly those who work the taxi ranks, as they will now be faced with additional competition,’ she said.
‘While we will always struggle to please everyone, I think most people will agree that the measures are a step in the right direction.’
The association was formed last year to replace the fractured Taxi Owners’ Federation, following another recommendation in the review commissioned by E&I.
