Spoofer Charlie O’Connor exposed after taxi gaffe - Coveney

Friday, 18 February 2011

Fine Gael Transport Spokesman Simon Coveney has said Charlie O’Connor has committed
yet another gaffe exposing him as a spoofer, after he called for a cap on taxi
licences.

“In one of his most populist stunts, Charlie O’Connor has called for a cap on taxi
licences. The only problem is, there’s already an effective cap in place.

“The only licences currently being awarded are for either for wheelchair accessible
vehicles or limousines.

“No standard taxi licence has been awarded for over a year.

“Noel Dempsey and Fianna Fáil have flatly refused to assist taxi drivers, repeatedly
ignoring their difficulties.

“Yet just one week before polling day Charlie O’Connor decides to pull a populist
stunt.

“Fine Gael is offering the taxi industry real change, not just blatant
electioneering. We think it’s only fair to review the Nine Year Rule.

“Fine Gael supports the Taxi Regulator’s commitment to increase the quality and
safety standard of taxi vehicles. However, in the current economic circumstances it
is unreasonable to expect drivers to upgrade to new vehicles. The Taxi Regulator
estimates that 24% of taxis will need to be replaced by the end of 2011.

“Taxis in Ireland provide a vital service to business and the consumer and must
receive the same assistance as other forms of public transport.”