Minister launches Northern Ireland taxi licensing review with focus on Class C sector which includes Uber services
Northern Ireland’s Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has announced the start of a phased review into taxi policy and legislation, beginning with an assessment of Class C Taxi Licensing.
The current licensing rules follow The Taxis Act (Northern Ireland) 2008. The first phase will examine Class C taxis, which include vehicles used for weddings, funerals, chauffeur work, courtesy transport and services such as Uber.
Minister Kimmins confirmed the review in response to long-standing calls from the industry, particularly from those involved in the wedding and funeral car sectors.
She said the review will offer a chance to hear concerns and explore ways of improving how Class C licensing operates in Northern Ireland. The Minister added that while a full review of the 2008 Act is not possible during the current mandate, the phased approach will allow progress to be made on pressing issues.
The next phase of the review will look at access to wheelchair accessible vehicles, which the Minister described as a significant issue for future consideration.
Minister Kimmins said: “The taxi industry provides an important service within our community ensuring people, including the most vulnerable in society, have door to door access to work, education, social engagements and medical appointments. I appreciate that there are a range of issues currently affecting the taxi industry in the North and I am committed to working with the industry to address these.
“I am aware that the taxi industry, in particular the wedding and funeral car sector, have been seeking a review of Class C licensing for a number of years. While a full review of the Taxi Act would not be possible within the remainder of the current mandate, I am pleased to announce a phased review commencing with a review of Class C Taxi Licensing.
“This will provide an opportunity to listen to concerns and consider options for improving the operation of Class C taxi licensing in the North. In announcing this, I recognise the importance of maintaining a professional taxi industry in the North, improving passenger safety and customer service and reducing illegal taxi activity.
“When this stage has been completed the next phase of the review of taxi policy and legislation will consider access to wheelchair accessible vehicles as this is another very significant and important issue.”
