Legislation requiring taxis to have approved meters and printers installed to be enforced from next week

Legislation requiring taxis to have approved meters and printers installed will be enforced from next week.

Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard has confirmed regulations will come into force from 1 October.

He said: "In the past few months, I have engaged directly with the taxi industry and while it is regrettable that some drivers and operators have delayed arranging fitting and sealing of meters and printers until the last minute, I recognise the concerns being expressed around the timescales to have a meter/printer installed and tested by DVA by 1 October.

“I have therefore instructed DVA enforcement officers to continue with a light touch approach to enforcement at the roadside, provided the driver can prove they have booked a test date prior to 1 October 2016, even if the test is not due to take place until later in the year. I believe this will go a long way to addressing the concerns of the industry and I hope they take this opportunity to meet these requirements and create an enhanced experience for their customers.

“I made it clear when I inherited this issue that I was determined to ensure that the public in the North had a safe and modern taxi industry.

“The installation of taximeters and printers are integral in achieving this and will create a safer, fairer and fit for purpose taxi industry, protecting both drivers and customers.”

Mr Hazzard concluded: “Consumers are entitled to expect the protection of a properly calibrated and sealed meter, as provided for in law, particularly coming up to the busy Christmas period."