13 December 1999
The parties (Ministry of Transport and the National Taxi Drivers Organisation) agree that taxi drivers have legitimate concerns which must be addressed. A document which outlines most of the organisation’s concerns was presented to the Minister at the meeting. All matters contained in the document and others raised during the discussions today will be looked at by the Ministry of Transport.
It has been agreed that early in the new year, a process should be initiated so as to ensure that these concerns are adequately addressed. A meeting, which will also involve other unions and organisations representing drivers will be held to ensure that all roleplayers and stakeholders are on board.
National Taxi Drivers Organisation (NATDO) agreed to suspend the planned ‘go-slow’ until their meeting with Government next month. In the meantime, NATDO fully support government programme of action to reduce accidents and fatalities on our roads. It supports government’s call for all road users to obey the rules of the road. NATDO particularly supports the call to comply with the six road safety commandments of Arrive Alive, namely;
NATDO has agreed to call upon all taxi drivers, particularly its own members, to comply with the law and observe the 100km/h rule. NADTO believes that the same speed limits should be extended to all vehicles. In its interaction with government in the new year, NATDO will ensure that its membership and other taxi drivers do their work within the confines of the law. Government recognises the need to consult with roleplayers and stakeholders including NATDO in matters affecting them.
Issued by
Mike Mabasa
Media Liaison Officer to Minister of Transport, Dullah Omar
Pretoria
083 680 7048