Taxi driver's concerns remain over anti-social behaviour

It follows April's increase in tariffs

A taxi driver has reiterated his concerns about anti-social behaviour during the nighttime trade three months after fares were increased.

In April the Roads Transport Licensing Committee announced rates would be going up and the late-night higher rate, of Tariff 2, would start an hour earlier at 11pm.

You can find out more HERE.

At the time Barry Murphy told Manx Radio he believed it would leave drivers subject to abuse.

He's only recently started charging the rate himself but says his concerns are still there:

Manx Radio contacted the Roads Transport Licensing Committee for a response.

A spokesperson said: "The RTLC has received complaints from Mr B. Murphy regarding both anti-social behaviour towards taxi drivers and the moving of Tariff 2 from midnight to 11pm.  

"It has received no complaints about these issues from anyone else in the taxi trade.

'"Should Mr Murphy, or any other taxi drivers, experience anti-social behaviour the RTLC would strongly urge them to report the incident immediately to the police.  

"The RTLC is a regulatory body not an enforcement agency and does not have any legislative power to deal with anti-social behaviour conducted by members of the public.

"All emails to the RTLC from Mr Murphy, as well as any other person or body, are answered. However these responses may not always be immediate.

Manx Radio also contacted the Isle of Man Government for a response, which issued a second response from the RTLC:

"This is not an issue that the RTLC is aware of.  

"The RTLC does not have any legislative power to deal with anti-social behaviour conducted by members of the public or other factors which might affect the safety of taxi drivers.

"The RTLC urges any taxi drivers that feel unsafe to contact the police immediately."

The Isle of Man Constabulary, meanwhile, says it is increasing police presence in Douglas. 

A spokesperson added: "The Douglas neighbourhood inspector has liaised directly with the head of the taxi drivers where it’s been explained to him what the police will be doing to assist them therefore the inspector is happy they know our stance on it and that we are working closely with them to deter any anti-social behaviour.

"This includes increased police presence with high visibility patrols in the area."

You can listen to the full interview with Barry Murphy via Newscast below: