SYKES: TAXI SOLUTION ONE STEP CLOSER

The Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes, has welcomed the Bracks’ Government’s support for a National Party motion calling on the Government to immediately implement measures that will ensure the vital (taxi) services can continue to meet the needs of rural and regional communities.

Dr Sykes said, “The Government has at last heard our pleas on behalf of country taxis and the many small communities which they serve. I and my Nationals colleagues have worked closely with taxi operators throughout country Victoria to get immediate government action.

“Parliamentary Secretary for Infrastructure, Carlo Carli, who is responsible for taxi services, has accepted my invitation to sit down with taxi operators, Marg Wilson of Bright and Rebecca Wilson of Myrtleford, to come up with common sense solutions to ensure ongoing taxi services in country Victoria.

“I will continue to push for a level playing field in relation to subsidies currently made available to city taxi and bus operators, but denied to country taxis which are now acknowledged as a proxy form of public transport by the Government’s own Essential Services Commission.

Dr Sykes continued, “Taxi operators have suggested several common sense solutions which would help the country taxi industry provide better services, at no cost to the Government.

“These included better integration of taxis into transport systems for country communities, allowing more flexible working hours and allowing country taxis to help out in neighbouring towns when invited by the local operator.

“Allowing country taxi operators to advertise on their taxis would generate valuable income at no cost to the Government or taxi users.

Dr Sykes concluded, “I encourage country taxi operators to work with The Nationals and the Government to achieve immediate implementation of common sense solutions to ensure that country taxis continue to provide their much valued transport for our disabled, needy and frail elderly so that they may access medical appointments and participate in community activities.

Media contact: Bill Sykes (03) 5762 2100 or 0427 624 989