Carlisle lashes out at the NTA

By Khanyisa Tabata
22 March 2010

Transport Minister in the Western Cape Robin Carlisle says he is very disappointed at today strike by the National Taxi Alliance after spending time over the weekend trying to negotiate.

Carlisle spokesperson Solly Malatsi says the minister met with NTA in an effort to avoid today’s strike and says the minister is furious that this morning the body was involved in acts of violence and intimidation including pelting stones at buses.

According to Malatsi the minister shelved all plans to assist the NTA with its concerns until such time that they give me a written declaration that no further violence will occur.

“The minister made it clear to them over the weekend that he was neither able nor prepared to meet their main demand for a universal amnesty for pounded vehicles.

“At no time was he the minister was informed that today’s strike would go over to general lawlessness,” said Malatsi.

Malatsi added that the minister made it clear to the taxis on numerous occasions that the IRT would not proceed without their involvement. Their allegation that their vehicles are impounded illegally does not hold water at all.