Residents in Dumfries and Galloway are being urged not to use unregistered cabs following reports of a growing number of rogue drivers operating in the area.
It has emerged that drivers who don’t own a taxi license have taken to social media, with the lure of reduced rates, to tout for business. Whilst the problem has been acknowledged by the council and police, proving wrong doing is no easy task with drivers claiming simply to be collecting their friends.
Taxi License Holders Fight a Losing Battle
William McLean, who runs McLean’s Taxis in Stranraer, told one local newspaper that legitimate firms are “fighting a losing battle” against cut-price unlicensed drivers.
He explains: “Everyone knows if you want a cheap lift on a Saturday night you can just ask one of the boy racers.
“We get the police to intervene when we spot it happening but they always claim they’re just picking up pals which can’t be proved wrong. Even worse, they can pick people up at Burns Statue but we’re not allowed there.
“They’re taking work away from licensed drivers who’ve jumped through hoops to meet legal requirements.”
Echoing Mr McLean’s thoughts, another local businessman, Michael Burns of Burns Taxis, added: “It’s a problem and it’s annoying but I don’t know what can be done about it.
“It’s getting harder to be in this industry, there seems to be more trouble these days and more hassle for drivers.”
Public Safety
Councillor David McKie, from the authority’s licensing panel, said: “We held a meeting with drivers in Dumfries and Stranraer recently and the growing number of unlicensed cars is a great concern.
Helping Hand
Anyone with information about the culprits is being urged to contact the police. Although, how effective this appeal is going to be remains to be seen.
Inspector David Blacklock said: “The licensing of taxis and private hire vehicles ensures that the vehicle and driver are of an acceptable standard to safeguard the safety of customers.”
Police are keen to hear from anyone who may have any information about unlicensed taxis or private hire vehicles operating in the region.
The regional licensing authority can be contacted on 01387 245922.
Social Media
This is the first time we’ve heard about social media as a means for rogue drivers to pick up business. Is this a problem where you are too? If so, we’d love to hear what your local authority and police force are doing to help solve the problem.