Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour) | Oireachtas source

Absolutely, enforcement is going to improve dramatically, as set out in the Bill. There is provision to provide for many more enforcement officers across this city and across the country. As a result, the National Transport Authority has been in the process of putting in place such a larger enforcement regime, which is necessary. Despite the massive amount of regulatory changes that I have imposed after the review and despite this Bill, the most comprehensive taxi Bill ever in this country, without enforcement this work will not achieve what we collectively desire. That is happening and will be in place. I have also spoken to the drivers the Deputy refers to. They will see this directly in their face. Those who have nothing to worry about will have no issue with this.

The free app is very successful for anyone who wants to check out taxi drivers and taxis prior to getting in. The app is almost 100% accurate in respect of data. Some drivers do not update information quickly enough, which accounts for some of the information referred to. Quite soon, it will be communicated by the National Transport Authority that it is unacceptable for a car to be rented out and for someone to be driving and not have updated information. Drivers have been given adequate notice and the app has been in place for a considerable period of time. Members of the public can report those who are not registered. The enforcement that will follow will come to the fore in the coming months.

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