SANTACO to embark on two-day shutdown

The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) in the Western Cape announced the taxi industry in the province would embark on a stay-away on Monday and Tuesday.

SANTACO says they are unhappy about Government’s subsidy for the taxi industry; government’s by-laws on taxis; and the termination of the Blue Dot taxi project.

About 15 000 taxis are expected not to operate for these two days.

The taxi association encouraged commuters to make alternative transport arrangements

“We apologise for the inconvenience this action may cause.”

The Western Cape’s Mobility MEC, Daylin Mitchell has requested that taxi leaders call off the planned shutdown.

‘’I understand and share the leadership’s concerns… Any shutdown of minibus taxi services will have a devastating effect on many aspects of the Western Cape and cannot be condoned.’’

‘’The minibus taxi industry plays a critical role in the economy of the Western Cape and in the lives of our citizens, transporting 2 million passengers daily and accounting for 75% of all public transport trips,’’ he added.

Mitchell says the strike will have a devastating impact on commuters

‘’Given the above and the serious economic challenges we face as a province and as nation, we cannot afford for the industry to cease operations, even for a day. This is particularly important at a time when Grade 12 learners are writing their exams, which simply should not be disrupted, and many other grades of learners are getting ready or have started writing their exams.’’

‘’Both I and the industry have the passengers’ best interests at heart and we should avoid taking any action which would deprive them of the public transport they need to access opportunities.’’

 

PICTURED: MEC Daylin Mitchell at Bush Radio

Done By: Mitchum George