Paul Murphy (Dublin South West, Solidarity)
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196. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the issue of taxi drivers being victims of violence in the course of their work has been given consideration; the measures he has considered to protect taxi drivers; if legislation such as an Act will be introduced (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15577/19]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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I am keenly aware of the utmost importance of ensuring the safety of small public service vehicle (SPSV) drivers. However, I should explain that matters of a criminal nature, as well as enforcement in relation to those, are for my colleague, the Minister for Justice and Equality. As assault is a criminal matter, it can only be investigated by members of An Garda Síochána.

The regulation of the SPSV industry, including the regulation of passenger behaviour, is a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA) under the provisions of the Taxi Regulation Act 2013 and I currently have no proposals for amending that legislation in this regard.  Given your reference to signage, and in line with the NTA's power in this regard, I have forwarded your correspondence to the Authority for further consideration and direct reply if appropriate.