Unite Wales members in the taxi trade are breathing a sigh of relief today, as the Welsh government acknowledged their concerns and ensured hardship funding will be available for them through their local authorities. Drivers believed that the application process for discretionary grants left them marginalised, and did not take into account the devastating economic impact Covid-19 restrictions have had on their jobs.

Unite Wales Regional Secretary, Peter Hughes said;

“It’s clear that continuing restrictions on the hospitality, leisure and tourism sectors have dealt a hammer blow to the taxi trade, and as long as these restrictions remain necessary the trade cannot recover. This step by the Welsh government is welcome, and can exceed the support package offered anywhere else in the UK. Ensuring that drivers can now access this much needed financial support at least gives them some relief over a difficult winter. This is a testament to the unity and solidarity shown by Unite members, making their voices heard and winning this acknowledgement for all in the trade.”

Regional Officer Alan McCarthy said;

“Our members are understandably relieved to be now able to access grant funding from the Welsh government through the local authorities. While it is a welcome move, the income that’s been lost since March is astounding, and individual local authorities can still do more by waiving license and badge fees while we wait for the trading situation to improve. Limiting financial outgoings can be key alongside providing the maximum available grant. Unite will continue to support our members through this pandemic and beyond, and we look forward to discussions around stopping the damage Cross Bordering has done before, during and after Covid-19.”

Taxi Branch Secretary, Yusef Jama said “Drivers across Wales will be relieved to see that Welsh Government have listened to their concerns and kept taxis in mind when allocating funding for financial support. I’m extremely proud of the solidarity our branch has shown, being so vocal and making sure their concerns were heard loud and clear.”

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For further information please contact Glyn Conolly on 07974 131771.