North Ayrshire taxi driver handed formal warning for smoking inside cab
A taxi driver in North Ayrshire has faced disciplinary action after breaching licensing regulations by smoking in his vehicle. The incident has raised questions about compliance with public health rules among taxi operators.
The driver, Alister Gill, was spotted smoking a cigarette while parked on Canal Street near Auchenharvie Academy. Licensing Standards Officer Drew Robertson observed Mr Gill at 12.25pm on 11 November. Mr Gill was alone in his Skoda with the driver’s window fully open, holding a cigarette in his right hand.
Although the officer witnessed the act, there was no immediate opportunity to confront the driver. Mr Robertson followed up with a phone call the next day to inform Mr Gill of the breach. During the conversation, the driver offered no explanation for his actions but was reminded of the smoking policy and advised that the matter would be referred to the licensing committee.
Smoking inside licensed vehicles is prohibited under the regulations, a rule that also extends to e-cigarettes and vapour devices. Mr Robertson pointed out that there was no justification for smoking in the vehicle as it had been dry outside on the day of the incident, suggesting the driver could have stepped out of the car.
Appearing before the committee, Mr Gill, who has been driving taxis since 1995, explained that he had been upset after a recent incident involving a passenger who refused to pay their fare. He admitted to smoking to calm his nerves but expressed regret for his actions. He stated that he does not usually smoke and apologised for the breach.
However, Mr Robertson informed the committee that he had previously observed Mr Gill smoking in his vehicle, although this was the first time he had been in a position to address it.
The committee raised concerns about the implications of smoking inside a taxi. Councillor Jean McClung highlighted that cigarette smoke can linger and pose health risks to subsequent passengers, particularly those with allergies or respiratory issues. Mr Gill noted that he keeps air freshener spray in his car, but this did little to alleviate concerns.
Councillor Larsen questioned whether the driver’s decision to smoke stemmed from the stress of the fare dispute. While acknowledging this, she emphasised that the driver could have parked and stepped outside to smoke, rather than breaching regulations.
Ultimately, the committee decided to issue Mr Gill with a formal warning letter. Councillor Eleanor Collier, the committee chair, made it clear that further infractions would not be tolerated. The decision was supported unanimously by the committee members.
