Taxi strike in May could cause major disruption during Eid, organisers claim
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A TAXI drivers action group is planning to strike two days in May, which could cause major disruption to Eid celebrations across Bradford.
Bradford Taxi Action Group (BTAG) is calling for a full strike on May 13 and 14 unless Bradford Council responds to concerns about plans to introduce a Clean Air Zone (CAZ) in January.
In a letter to the council, Asif Shah, chairman of BTAG, wrote: "We are still awaiting a response from an email sent to the Council Leader and Chief Executive on March 18 in relation to the CAZ queries.
"If we don’t get a response by May 4, then we will have no option but to call for a full strike to take place on Thursday, May 13, and Friday, May 14, to coincide with Eid celebrations which will undoubtedly create problems for the city."
Mr Shah did say that a strike would cause significant disruption as approximately 70 per cent of operators across the city support BTAG.
It follows on from a previous taxi strike about the Clean Air Zone on March 12, which Mr Shah said had a "very successful turnout of 500 to 600 drivers".
The CAZ would see the most polluting vehicles charged to enter much of the city centre.
Although private cars will not be charged, taxis and private hire vehicles that do not meet up to date emission standards would have to pay £12.50 per day to enter the city.
"There is frustration amongst members," said Mr Shah. "We don't want to strike because it's not in the interest of anybody.
"But if we do strike it will bring the transport industry in Bradford to it knees."
Mr Shah also said BTAG are frustrated that the council will not recognise them as a trade association.
Mr Shah said getting recognised as an association by Bradford Council would give BTAG "some communication with the licensing service"
"It would allow us to put the views of our members' views forward, particularly during licensing meetings."
However, Mr Shah explained that council would not recognise BTAG unless they release membership details.
"They're asking us to disclose membership details, which a lot of members do not want to do," said Mr Shah.
In a letter to BTAG, a council solicitor explained: " I cannot see how the council can recognise a trade association unless its membership can be verified. Only the names, badge/ plate numbers and contact details of members would be required for this purpose."
A spokesperson for Bradford Council said: “The council works well with a number of trade organisations which represent the taxi trade and they comply with the rules set out.
“The council is under a Government directive to introduce a Clean Air Zone and is therefore duty bound to comply.
“We are continuing to have conversations with the trade to support drivers to adapt. We value the district’s taxi drivers as an important part of our public transport service, they have had a very difficult year and we are grateful for all they have done in these challenging times.”