Mr. Jim Waldron:

I am not aware of anything in the stimulus package directed towards the taxi industry. Regarding the costs the Deputy mentioned, such as licences, the NCT and the suitability test, a very practical thing could be done to help taxi drivers. We have been calling for this for years. The car test and the suitability test are carried out in the same premises on two different occasions. We do not understand why they cannot all be done at the same time. Why do we have to drive away and come back two days later to do the second part of a test? That is a cost to drivers. As well as the monetary cost of the tests, it is also a cost in time and effort.

GAA and League of Ireland venues throughout the country are starting to open up this weekend. There is never provision for a taxi rank at these places. These are the opportunities that taxi drivers are seeking at the moment. The Government should set in place positions were taxi drivers can pick up an income. It has been repeatedly missed. We need to be part of the planning process when events, including Bloom in Phoenix Park and events at Croke Park, are being organised. Taxis need to be provided for as part of the planning permission.

I am sorry. I missed the first part of the Deputy’s question because I got a bit distracted.