Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns has given a guarded welcome to the Government’s commitment to review the system in place for granting taxi licences to drivers.
“In the Dáil today, my party proposed a range of measures to tackle the epidemic of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence in this country.
“We called on the Government to review, implement and update regulations across a number of different professions, including the taxi industry, to ensure that predators can be quickly identified and sanctioned.
“I therefore welcome the commitment we secured today from the Minister that the Departments of Justice and Transport, in conjunction with gardaí, are to carry out an urgent review of the system in place for issuing licences to taxi drivers.
“Crucially, this will include an assessment of whether any improvements need to be made – including periodic rechecks of a driver’s suitability – to ensure that taxis are safe.
“While I welcome today’s development, the Government must also review other areas in need of regulation, including dentistry, counselling and psychotherapy services.
“We are growing tired of hearing the Government’s self-professed zero tolerance attitude to violence against women.
“To match their words with action, there must be no delay in carrying out the promised review of taxi regulations.”
July 10, 2024