Police commissioner views Cardiff’s taxi strike as a ‘big mistake’

He warns that it will put the public at risk


Cardiff Hackney Carriage Association are in dispute with the council over strikes that are due to take place this Friday. 

South Wales Police and Crime Commissioner, Alun Michael, is appealing for taxi drivers to cancel their planned strike as he believes that it will harm their reputation and put the public at risk.

Police Commissioner Alun Michael commented: “Some taxi drivers pick and choose between potential fares, rejecting short journeys and often putting young women at risk. Proposing a strike in defence of this behaviour suggests a wish to legitimise the practice, and that is both dangerous and unacceptable.”

Taxi companies are striking because they think some drivers have been unfairly suspended

The strike is a result of Hackney Carriage feeling victimised after five drivers were suspended for reportedly refusing short fares.

Cardiff Hackney Association’s chairman Mathab Khan said that drivers often deal with aggressive and discriminatory behaviour, adding: “We have lost faith in the licensing committee.”

The strike is planned for April 15th and 16th, and on April 22nd and 23rd.