IWU launch Taxi Drivers Branch

dublin | worker & community struggles and protests | press release Wednesday July 22, 2009 17:19 by Brian Halpin - Taxi Drivers Branch - IWU

Independent Workers' Union
Dublin Taxi Drivers' Branch
For Full Time Professional Taxi Drivers'

About the IWU
The Independent Workers' Union is a trade union free from the constraints of Social Partnership and the need to appease bosses or politicians. The Independent Workers Union works for its members and for no other interest.

We are a licensed trade union possessing a negotiation license as stipulated in the Trade Union Act 1941. This allows us to lawfully negotiate on behalf of our members and lawfully conduct industrial action as stated in the Industrial Relations Act 1990.

Taxi Industry
Since government deregulation of the taxi industry it has become increasingly difficult for those working in the taxi industry to make a living. Far too many cars are chasing a limited number of fares. There are now an unprecedented 27,000 plus taxi licenses operating throughout this country. This is clearly unsustainable and is generating many problems in the industry which will ultimately lead to a low quality, low waged industry if it goes unchallenged.

Three problems in particular are creating major problems:

*Part-Time Drivers with full-time jobs “creaming off" the busy periods

*Inadequate state provisions for workers made redundant is forcing many of those losing their jobs to apply for taxi licenses

* Illegal taxi drivers operating with bogus taxi signs and in some cases without a vehicle or drivers' license. There is a lack of enforcement which leaves scope for criminal activity in the taxi industry.

Instead of addressing these issues and others that are devastating the industry, the government's taxi regulator has insisted on enforcing a rigid free-market policy designed to continuously increase the number of licences while squeezing down drivers' income

Membership of the union
Membership of the union costs €240 per year. This includes:

* Annual tax returns and other financial advice
*Discount on Insurance
* Honest representation at a local and national level demanding

1. A cap on the issuing of licenses with natural wastage
2. Enforcement of Health & Safety Measures

(Emphasising the EU working time directive in regards to double jobbers)

3. Provision of Social Welfare for off-periods
4. Reducing government tax on taxi overheads
5.Ending VRT on taxi cabs
6. Increase provision of taxi ranks

We invite you to join us in our fight for a full-time professional taxi industry. Remember, Every non-unionised taxi driver weakens our position at the negotiation table.

Contact: Brian Halpin 01 8197731 or 0857103630

Independent Workers' Union
Taxi Drivers' Branch
61, North Strand Road
Dublin 3.
brian.halpin@hotmail.com