Door opens for cabbies
Nationals MP Terry Redman says he hopes to see taxi drivers from around the region filling the void in Denmark once new taxi laws come into effect on July 1.
Denmark’s sole taxi operator closed down in March.
But with changes to be implemented under on-demand transport reforms, Mr Redman said drivers from across the State could fill the seasonal demand in Denmark.
“My first priority is to get a taxi service operating out of Denmark,” he said.
“But given there is no service there presently, the second best alternative is to have taxis from Albany or anywhere around the region to operate here.
“Which will suit some, due to the seasonal nature of Denmark.”
But Albany City Cabs’ Tim O’Donnell, who runs 14 taxis and five charter vehicles in Albany, said he had no plans to operate his taxis in Denmark.
Mr O’Donnell said the taxi reforms had put all regional taxi drivers on the backfoot.
He was more concerned with keeping his business afloat than filling a gap in another town.
“There’s a whole pile of compliances under the new legislation, which makes it unbearable for many — that’s why you see Denmark Cab Company closing up,” he said.
“We’re flat out now just to keep this business running now. I don’t think we will be operating our taxis in Denmark.”
Denmark Chamber of Commerce executive officer Liz Jack said the chamber had set up meetings with the Department of Transport to try to fix the town’s taxi gap.
“There are opportunities out there but we’re not aware of anybody who wants to step into that space,” she said.
“There is also the ‘Hi Oscar’ (ridesharing) application opening up in the region, so hopefully they’re interested to provide a service in Denmark.”
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