New legislation has taxi drivers up in arms

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Tuesday, 27 September 2016 07:58

Newry taxi drivers are up in arms over legislation that comes into effect this Saturday.

The requirements will see all taxis fitted with meters and printers.
They then need to be tested by the DVA.
The new measure was established in May, but by the weekend random roadside checks will be carried out to enforce it.
Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard has said intially a 'light approach' will be taken to checks.
Taxiline drivers claim it's another on top of a heap of obstacles for taxi industry.
They fear the rules will boost fares and put off customers.
This driver from Newry firm Taxiline says the legislation will lead to other problems,

"People would ring from Warrenpoint, they want to go to Rostrevor, but we're only only going to be allowed to charge a fare from Warrenpoint to Rostrevor. No [Newry-based] driver is going to go on a run like that. And what this could lead to is a proliferation for illegal taxis or a rise in drink-driving.