As a result of a joint Police operation last week-end in which 46 taxis (cars and buses) and private vehicles were examined, seven taxis have had to be taken off the road for failing to meet the required PSV standards. The check of illegal taxi operators was carried out in partnership with the Driver Vehicle Testing Agency, one was found not to have a taxi driver’s licence.Fve people are now facing prosecution for a number of offences including no insurance.
Seven taxis failed to meet the required PSV standards after authorised officers from the DOE examined them. All of these vehicles will require to be submitted to the DoE for retesting. Faults included failure to carry a fire extinguisher, defective lights and defective bodywork. Two fixed penalty notices were issued for not wearing seat belts”.
Several drivers stopped were breath tested and one man was arrested and charged with dangerous driving and driving with excess alcohol. It is not clear if he was a taxi-driver.
Police had received positive feedback from those taxi drivers who continue to operate legally, and last week-end’s operation is to be repeated.
