Deputy Terence Flanagan:

I welcome the witnesses here. What does the TTnH feel about the new vehicle brand? Will it have a positive effect? Will it eliminate the double jobbing that seems to go on in the sector? Will it lead to people having more confidence that they are hailing a fully regulated taxi? A taxi driver will be concerned that people will recognise that he or she is driving a taxi on his or her day off. That might increase the risk of car break-ins for them. Does the TTnH welcome the measure?

With regard to vehicles, the nine-year rule proved controversial not too long ago. I am sure that it still the case. There are perfectly working and roadworthy cars which are older passing NCTs and other tests. What is the TTnH's opinion of the nine-year rule? Has it greatly improved the standard and quality of vehicles for customers? Perhaps the delegation might comment on fees and outline how much a taxi driver pays the regulator and in other fees for a year. That information would give us an idea of expenditure in that regard.