Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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The regulation of the small public service vehicle (SPSV) industry is a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA) under the provisions of the Taxi Regulation Act 2013. 

At present, the transfer of SPSV licences is prohibited under section 14(1) of the 2013 Act which was commenced with effect from 6 April 2014. However, in the case of the death of a licence holder, section 15 of the same Act applies special provisions.  In such circumstances, a SPSV licence may continue to be operated by a person who was nominated by the licence holder in advance of his or her death.  I have no plans at present to adjust these provisions.

However, I was recently made aware that there have been some cases where licence holders have passed away without completing and submitting the required nomination form to the NTA. As a result, I am asking the NTA to consider raising the level of awareness around the associated nomination process and would certainly urge all SPSV licence holders to take the time to complete the nomination form as soon as possible.

Given the particular role of the Authority in these matters, I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 214 and 215 together.

The regulation of the small public service vehicle (SPSV) industry is a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA).  The Authority's functions, along with the functions of taxi enforcement officers, are established under the provisions of the Taxi Regulation Act 2013.

My Department has regular liaison meetings with the NTA regarding the full suite of the Authority's responsibilities, including the regulation of the SPSV industry and, as I understand that issues relating to enforcement powers have not been raised as a matter of concern in that context, I have as a consequence no plans to provide additional powers at this time. 

As outlined above, the NTA is responsible for appointing taxi enforcement officers and issues relating to the availability of officers to work at night is a matter for them. 

To be of assistance, I have referred your question to the Authority for their consideration and direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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As the Deputy may be aware, I asked the National Transport Authority (NTA) to conduct a public consultation on rickshaws last year, which concluded at the end of September. A report on the consultation, along with recommendations by the NTA, were submitted to my Department in the latter part of 2017. 

My Department is now considering a range of options for regulating rickshaws from the perspective of proportionality, public safety and enforcement as well as regarding the question of costs and benefits.  I intend to select a preferred approach in the near future, with any corresponding legislative provisions to be developed shortly thereafter.