NSW: Taxi s threaten New Year s eve boycott

AAP General News (Australia)
12-10-1999
NSW: Taxi s threaten New Year s eve boycott

Sydney's taxi drivers have vowed to boycott New Years Eve after a one-off fare increase
was rejected by the Department of Transport.

Drivers argue that the claim for a $5 flag fall and a doubling of fares from $122 to
$244 a kilometre would encourage more drivers on to the road.

A report in the Sydney Morning Herald says a last ditch meeting has now been organised
for Tuesday between the state Transport Minister CARL SCULLY and union officials in an
attempt to thrash out a compromise.

Drivers and the Transport Workers Union argue others working on the millenium eve are
reciving bonuses.

They also say they have to deal with a huge number of drunk and boorish passengers,
making New Year's Eve unpopular with drivers.

TWU senior executive officer ANDREW WHALE says the union is confident that there won't
be many cabs on the road if the Government doesn't allow the claim.

AAP RTV cf/dmc

KEYWORD: TAXI (SYDNEY)

1999 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.