Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour) | Oireachtas source

The subparagraph in section 17 to which the amendment refers is necessary to enable the NTMA to make SPSV regulations concerning the markings or colour of vehicles. This is necessary if we want to move in the future to greater conformity in SPSVs. The provision is a restatement of a similar provision under section 34(2) of the Taxi Regulation Act 2003 concerning the internal and external signage or colour of the vehicle. This allowed the NTA to regulate for the current taxi branding that was introduced in January this year. The aim of the branding is to make taxis more identifiable and to promote greater professionalism in the industry. I cannot, therefore, accept the amendment.

I chaired the taxi review, as was appropriate, and consumer representatives took part and this issue was among those they raised. I held a particular view but we had to come to an arrangement with the industry. The branding that we see now on cars that have renewed their licence is the compromise that was reached with the industry itself. We reached a fair compromise. This allows for flexibility in the future in this area.