Latest Update.
Thank you to everyone who has signed and supported this petition.
I wanted to provide an update on where things currently stand.
Following recent media coverage confirming that the Isle of Man Government intends to undertake a review of the legislation governing the taxi and private hire industry, I have today written to the Secretary of the Road Transport Licensing Committee, with the DEFA Minister copied into the correspondence.
Firstly, I welcome the announcement that a review is to take place. This is an important step and demonstrates that the concerns being raised are being taken seriously.
However, a number of important questions remain unanswered.
I have therefore asked for clarification on the scope of the proposed review, how and when the taxi trade will be consulted, whether all relevant Government departments will be involved where appropriate, and how the current licensing and vetting process will be examined.
The purpose of this petition has never been to criticise the overwhelming majority of honest and professional taxi drivers. On the contrary, it is to help protect both the travelling public and the reputation of the many drivers who work hard every day to provide a safe and professional service.
Our campaign has always been based on one simple principle: public confidence is essential. If an independent review confirms that the current licensing and vetting system is already as robust as it can be, then that should reassure everyone. If improvements are identified, they should be implemented without delay.
I have asked for a detailed response from the Road Transport Licensing Committee and the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture, and I will share any further developments with you as soon as I receive them.
Thank you once again for your continued support. Every signature helps demonstrate that passenger safety, transparency and public confidence matter to our community.
Thank you again. 196 signatures now. Still low numbers, but getting there. Progress is already being made.
For clarity here is the link to the story that was in the press recently. It was only touched upon, with little clarity.
Barry