Cab drivers on the Wirral, Merseyside, are facing an extra cost burden as a result of proposals for more regular medical check-ups. Wirral Borough Council is set to discuss a new rule which would see Wirral taxi drivers required to go through a compulsory medical examination every 5 years.
The existing system requires a driver to undergo an initial medical examination before having their license application approved. Once this initial test is complete and the drivers are proven to be fit for the job, both hackney taxi and private hire cab drivers in the borough, do not have to undergo any further medical examinations until they reach 65-years old and they subsequently are required to sit a yearly test.
Consultation
Wirral Borough Council’s health and safety committee members will be meeting in the coming weeks to reassess the current legislation and to carry out a consultation with taxi drivers.
Officials claim most council’s in the county already have a five-year medical check-up rule in place for taxi drivers and say the changes would bring Wirral in line with other Merseyside authorities.
Drivers Face Fees
However, the proposed medical exams come at a cost. Drivers would be charged a fee of £100-£140 per exam, depending on their GP.
The results of the meeting and consultation will be reported at a future committee meeting.