1.1 ABOUT THE NATIONAL TRANSPORT AUTHORITY (NTA)

INTRODUCTION

The Manual contains the SPSV guidelines and regulations set out by the National Transport Authority (NTA). This Manual has been created to help you apply for and maintain SPSV licences.

WHAT IS THE NTA?

Established by the Minister for Transport on 1 December 2009, the NTA is a statutory non-commercial body, operating under the control and guidance of the Department of Transport.

The NTA includes the previous regulatory organisation, the Commission for Taxi Regulation, which became part of NTA in 2011.

It is the licensing authority for Small Public Service Vehicles (SPSVs). Its functions include the development and maintenance of a regulatory framework for the control and operation of SPSVs and their drivers. It also includes associated services such as booking services (by app, telephone and walk-ins).

The NTA also has duties assigned under the Taxi Regulation Acts 2013 and 2016 and other relevant regulations.

THE NTA OBJECTIVES

Here are the main objectives of the NTA.

• Promote and support the provision of affordable high-quality services delivered by SPSVs and their drivers.
• Invest in activities that improve and support affordable high-quality SPSV services.
• Help increase the connection and placement of taxi services into the public transport system.
• Manage the development of a professional, safe, well-organised and customer-friendly service.
• Commit to the protection and respect of both SPSV operators and their customers.
• Encourage and support competition for SPSV services and standards including pricing, fares, and customer satisfaction.
• Help small public service vehicles become more available and affordable for people with disabilities, mobility, or sensory challenges.
• Improve the services offered by small public service vehicles, promote progress and innovation through support and investment.
• Strengthen and encourage development of high-quality affordable services that meet customer needs, including passengers with mobility or sensory impairments.
• Continue to develop and improve a licensing system that centres on the customer, along with regulations and standards for all SPSV licence holders and drivers.

NTA RESPONSIBILITIES AND LEGAL POWERS

REGULATION

The NTA can and is allowed to create regulations and set standards related to the licensing, control and operation of SPSV drivers, vehicles, renters, dispatch operators, bookings and other services.

LICENSING

Licences are given only to SPSV drivers, vehicle operators and dispatch operators or other booking services who meet the expected quality standards. It is against the law to work in the SPSV industry without the correct licence or licences.

COMPLIANCE

The NTA tracks and checks the industry to make sure the law is followed across Ireland. It investigates complaints from the public and, when it is necessary, NTA fines or prosecutes any breach of the law or SPSV legislation.

CUSTOMER AND INDUSTRY INFORMATION

The NTA provides a set of information services to the public and to the industry. There is a complaints process and a commendation scheme for SPSV drivers who deliver high-quality service.

SKILLS DEVELOPMENT

The NTA is responsible for making sure that SPSV operators meet high standards of knowledge and skill, so that customers can experience the best service possible.

POLICY DEVELOPMENT

The NTA works to connect SPSV services with the public transport system, ensuring that enough services are available nationally and that these services are suitable and can be used by people with disabilities.

We work closely with government departments, local councils, An Garda Síochána and other various groups to ensure that issues related to SPSV services are included in the development of national, regional and local policies.

We are continuously working toward rules and regulations that are correct and fair for customers, SPSV operators and SPSV licence holders.

ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON SMALL PUBLIC SERVICE VEHICLES

The Advisory Committee on Small Public Service Vehicles, also known as the Taxi Advisory Committee, is chosen by the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport.

It gives correct guidance and advice on issues that are important to SPSVs and their companies. The Advisory Committee speaks for many different partners and interested groups across the country, including:

• SPSV operators and drivers
• Local authorities and councils
• An Garda Síochána
• Customers and consumers
• People with disabilities
• Businesses
• Older people
• Tourism sectors
• Competition interests
• Specialist experts

The NTA can submit key issues related to SPSVs to the Advisory Committee for advice and use the advice to help make decisions; however, the NTA can decide whether to take or act on the advice of the Advisory Committee.