Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 227: To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will maximise the support given to taxi drivers in the new reforms rather than making matters more difficult. [24537/12]

Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour)
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The focus of the Taxi Regulation Review is to achieve a balanced set of reforms that allow consumers to have confidence in the taxi system while also ensuring that legitimate and competent operators and drivers can be rewarded fairly by operating under a regulatory framework that is adequately enforced.

The recommendations contained in the Taxi Regulation Review Report reflect the agreement of the Review Group following an extensive consultation process. In my view, the thrust of the reforms outlined in the Report will facilitate better sevices for consumers and will improve the operating environment for taxi drivers generally.

The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the regulation of the taxi industry under the Taxi Regulation Act, 2003 and is also the lead agency with responsibility for implementation of the recommendations of the Taxi Regulation Review Report. The NTA is required to report progress on implementation of the Review Recommendations quarterly to the Taxi Advisory Committee which includes representation from the taxi sector.