TAXI DRIVERS WERE targeted in Moray yesterday with police undertaking an operation aimed at ensuring they were adhering to the conditions of their licences.
In all 19 taxis and private hire vehicles were stopped and had to undergo detailed checks in line with the licence they held – however, police were please to find that only minor offences were detected all of which were easily rectified.
Certain criteria must be met by Taxi’s and Private Hire drivers in Moray as part of their licence conditions, these include their vehicles being roadworthy and safe. Drivers must also hold the appropriate taxi and private vehicle licence issued by Moray Council.
Sergeant Gavin Jardine from the Licensing Unit said: “This day of activity has been carried out to ensure that taxis and private hire vehicles are legal, roadworthy and ultimately safe for members of the public to use.
“Taxi and Private Hire drivers are expected to meet high standards and I’m pleased that the majority meet this without concern. This initiative is also a benefit to the taxi and private hire trade as we work together to ensure unscrupulous operators cannot freely operate.”
Chair of the Moray Licensing Committee, Councillor Gordon Cowie, added: “We fully support this operation.
“Although we have robust vehicle testing procedures for taxis at Moray Council, it’s important for public safety that we are assured every vehicle in use meets the standards required, and that drivers are fully licensed.”