Revamping Taxi Laws: Minister's Plans for Wedding Cars and Uber

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has announced a phased review of taxi policy and legislation in Northern Ireland. The current licensing system was introduced following the implementation of the Taxis Act (Northern Ireland) 2008.

Class C Taxi Licensing Review
The first stage of the review will focus on Class C Taxi Licensing. Class C taxis are used for chauffeur services, weddings, funerals, and courtesy transport. Unlike other taxi firms in Northern Ireland, Uber also operates on Class C licenses, which means that it does not have to display rooftop signs or install taxi meters in its vehicles.

Minister Kimmins' Statement
In announcing the move, Minister Kimmins stated: “The taxi industry provides an important service within our community, ensuring people, including the most vulnerable in society, have door-to-door access to work, education, social engagements, and medical appointments. 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. “I am aware that the taxi industry, in particular the wedding and funeral car sector, have been seeking a review of Class C licensing for a number of years. 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. “This will provide an opportunity to listen to concerns and consider options for improving the operation of Class C taxi licensing in the North. In announcing this, I recognise the importance of maintaining a professional taxi industry in the North, improving passenger safety and customer service and reducing illegal taxi activity. “When this stage has been completed, the next phase of the review of taxi policy and legislation will consider access to wheelchair-accessible vehicles as this is another very significant and important issue.”

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