Taxi Driver Online

Article completely and utterly misses the point


Derry MLAs raise concerns about taxi drivers leaving industry due to low fares and lack of support

https://www.derryjournal.com/business/d ... rt-3309503

Taxi drivers in Derry are leaving the industry due to fares that have been consistently lower than in other cities, it’s been claimed.

Foyle MLA Martina Anderson has said that more and more drivers are giving up taxiing to become delivery drivers because the money is better.

She said a review of fares should be conducted. Ms. Anderson was speaking during a debate on the falling number of taxi drivers in the industry.

The MLA also complained of a lack of government support, stating, ‘as far as I know, not one operator in Derry received a single penny from the COVID restrictions business support scheme from the Department for the Economy’.

Her constituency colleague Mark H. Durkan raised the issue of low fares.

“Fares are very low compared with those in other parts of the North, let alone with those on the Continent.

“Does she concur that those fares are set not by the Department per se but by the operators?” he asked.

Ms. Anderson replied: “Fares across the city of Derry are consistently low. Many drivers who work very long hours do not feel that they are getting a fair wage.

“That is why a review of fare structures is needed, and that is what I am calling for.

“It is no surprise that more and more drivers are leaving taxiing to get better wages working with, for example, local delivery services.

“Sensible, practical, bespoke support requires ministerial willpower to help drivers and operators.”

In response the MLA completely ignores that point and waffles instead

Of course, fares levels per se are one thing, but I don't think it's been the biggest issue as regards drivers leaving the trade

But let's hope that the debate was a bit more, er, rounded than this report suggests

By the way, for those like me who don't know what MLA means, it's Member of the Legislative Assembly. In Northern Ireland, obviously. Just to save you Googling

Drivers left the trade because they couldn't earn a bean, and didn't like the idea of being dead.

They are not coming back whether fares are low or high, as many still don't like the idea of being dead.

Especially if they can find employment paying the same or even more.

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IDFIMH

I think it is more the latter point than the former.

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Grandad,