Taxi regulator post to be re-advertised

The post of National Taxi Regulator is to be re-advertised at a salary of more than €100,000 because efforts to fill the post have been unsuccessful.

While there were 17 applicants for the position at a salary of €92,000, the Civil Service Commission was unable to make a recommendation on an appointment at the initial salary offered.

The failure to appoint a regulator means there will be a delay of up to three months in implementing new laws aimed at improving standards in the taxi industry.

In the meantime, the Minister for Transport, Mr Brennan, is likely to be faced with taking a number of decisions regarding standards for the industry, such as a uniform colour for taxis and a minimum age for vehicles.

The Minister will be advised by the National Taxi Advisory Council, which is chaired by the former Garda commissioner, Mr Pat Byrne.

This council is considering a range of other issues, such as training standards and whether drivers should wear seat belts.

A Department source said they were disappointed not to have the position filled but that it was better to wait until the right applicant was found.