Speaking on the day the leaflet launches, the Minister said: “This guide is an excellent initiative by the Consumer Council and is good news for the thousands of local people and visitors who rely on taxis every day to get to work, enjoy nights out or simply get about. Most taxi journeys go without a hitch but it’s important that people know how to make sure things don’t go wrong and what to do if they have a complaint.”
Complementing the Department of the Environment’s own very successful 'If it’s not on it, then don’t get in it' taxi plating public safety campaign, the Consumer Council’s guide clearly sets out the roof signs, licence plates and driver ID badges people need to look for to be confident that the taxis and taxi drivers they use are licensed and insured.
The Consumer Council has contributed significantly to the agreement of new fares for taxis licensed as Belfast Public Hire and the Department is beginning to implement the new Taxis Act which has a strong consumer focus.
The Minister continued:“I believe that both taxi users and the taxi trade will really benefit from the Consumer Council and the Department of the Environment working more closely in future on issues like fares, passenger information and complaints. With road safety in mind, I would especially reinforce the reminder to taxi passengers to always wear a seatbelt. "
The leaflet’s advice on what to do if you’re not happy with your taxi journey is also very useful. Noting as much information as possible – particularly the taxi’s licence plate number – the first port of call is the taxi driver or company. If you still have a problem, contact DOE taxi enforcement on 028 9025 4100 or email: enforcement.dvta@doeni.gov.uk.
Notes to Editors:
- The Consumer Council’s ‘Guide to Taking Taxis’
is available from the Consumer Council on 90 672488 or from pubs, hotels, shopping centres, tourist information offices across Northern Ireland - For media enquiries please contact DOE Press Office 028 9054 0014 or out of office hours, contact the EIS Duty Press Officer on pager 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
