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Posted on the 25th March 2025 in PHTM News
NORTHERN IRELAND MINISTER LAUNCHES CLASS C TAXI LEGISLATION REVIEW
Northern Ireland's Infrastructure Minister, Liz Kimmins, has announced a phased review of taxi policy and legislation, beginning with Class C taxi licensing, which includes wedding cars and Uber.
The current system, established by the 2008 Taxis Act, will be examined to address concerns raised by the industry.
Class C taxis, used for chauffeur services, weddings, funerals, and courtesy transport, are also the category under which Uber operates in Northern Ireland. This means Uber vehicles are not required to display rooftop signs or install taxi meters.
Minister Kimmins stated: "The taxi industry provides an important service within our community. I appreciate that there are a range of issues currently affecting the taxi industry in the North, and I am committed to working with the industry to address these."
Acknowledging the long-standing requests for a review, particularly from the wedding and funeral car sector, she added: "While a full review of the Taxi Act would not be possible within the remainder of the current mandate, I am pleased to announce a phased review commencing with a review of Class C Taxi Licensing."
The initial review aims to "listen to concerns and consider options for improving the operation of Class C taxi licensing in the North," with a focus on "maintaining a professional taxi industry, improving passenger safety and customer service and reducing illegal taxi activity."
Following the completion of the Class C review, the next phase will address "access to wheelchair-accessible vehicles," another significant issue for the industry.
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