Licensing Committee - 04/12/2014

At a MEETING of the LICENSING COMMITTEE held at Dundee on 4th December, 2014.

Present:-

COUNCILLORS

Councillor Stewart HUNTER, Convener, in the Chair.

The minute of meeting of this Committee of 6th November, 2014 was held as read.

Unless marked thus * all items stand delegated.

I DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Councillor Black declared a non-financial interest in the item of business at Article IV(d) by virtue of the representative of the organisers of the procession being known to him in a personal capacity and withdrew from the Chamber during its consideration.

Councillor Asif declared a non-financial interest in the item of business at Article V(x)-(xiii) by virtue of the agent for the applicants being known to him in a personal capacity.

Councillor Hunter declared a non-financial interest in the item of business at Article VII(d)(viii) by virtue of the licence holder being known to him in a personal capacity and withdrew from the Chamber during its consideration whereupon the Chair was taken by the Depute Convener, Councillor Bowes for this item of business.

Councillor Asif declared a non-financial interest in the item of business at Article VII(d)(iii) by virtue of the licence holder being known to him in a personal capacity.

Councillor Alexander declared a non-financial interest in the item of business at Article VII(d)(iv) by virtue of the licence holder being known to him in a personal capacity and withdrew from the Chamber during its consideration.

II MINUTE OF MEETING OF LICENSING SUB-COMMITTEE

The minute of meeting of the Licensing Sub-Committee held on 6th November, 2014 was submitted and noted for information and record purposes, a copy of which is attached to this minute as Appendix I.

III TAXI LIAISON GROUP - MINUTES OF MEETINGS

The minutes of meetings of the Taxi Liaison Group held on 20th January, 2014, 17th February, 2014 and 26th May, 2014 were submitted and noted for information and record purposes, copies of which are attached to this minute as Appendices II, III and IV.

IV CIVIC GOVERNMENT (SCOTLAND) ACT 1982

(a) NEW APPLICATIONS GRANTED UNDER DELEGATED POWERS

The Committee noted that the undernoted applications had been granted under delegated powers.

PRIVATE HIRE OPERATORS - NEW APPLICATIONS

SECOND HAND DEALER - NEW APPLICATIONS

SKIN PIERCING AND TATTOOIST - NEW APPLICATIONS

STREET TRADER - NEW APPLICATION

TAXI DRIVER - NEW APPLICATIONS

WINDOW CLEANER - NEW APPLICATION

(b) ANIMAL BOARDING - NEW APPLICATION

There was submitted the undernoted application.

In the case of this application, the Committee noted that the applicant was not present and having considered the advice of the Legal Officer, the Committee agreed that consideration of the application be deferred to the meeting of this Committee to be held in January, 2015.

(c) LATE HOURS CATERING - NEW APPLICATION

There was submitted the undernoted application.

In the case of this application, the Committee noted that the applicant was not present and agreed that the matter be considered in their absence. Thereafter, having noted that the applicant had not contacted the Environment Department to have a visit carried out and had not submitted their Unique Tax Reference Number, the Committee agreed that the application be considered incompetent.

(d) PUBLIC PROCESSION - NOTIFICATION

There was submitted the undernoted notification.

In the case of this notification, the Committee noted that a letter of representation had been submitted by the Chief Constable and that comments had also been received from the City Development Department. The Committee gave consideration to the content of both documents.

Thereafter, having heard the representative of the Chief Constable, a representative on behalf of the organisers of the procession and consideration of the advice of the Principal General Services Officer, the Committee agreed that the procession proceed as notified for, subject to the rally which was to commence at the close of the procession being held in City Square.

(e) SECOND HAND DEALER - NEW APPLICATION

There was submitted the undernoted application.

In the case of this application, the Committee gave consideration to a letter of objection which had been submitted by the Planning Department. Thereafter, having heard the Principal General Services Officer, the Committee agreed that the application be granted.

(f) STREET TRADER - NEW APPLICATION

There was submitted the undernoted application.

In the case of this application, the Committee noted that the applicant was not present and agreed that the matter be considered in their absence. Thereafter, having noted that the applicant had failed to submit their Unique Tax Reference Number, the Committee agreed that the application be considered incompetent.

(g) TAXI DRIVER - NEW APPLICATION

There were submitted the undernoted applications.

In the case of Application Nos 1, 3 and 4, the Committee noted that the applicants were not present and agreed that the applications be considered in their absence. Thereafter, having noted that the applicants had failed to pass the street test within the prescribed period, the Committee agreed that the applications be refused.

In the case of Application No 2, reference was made to Article VII(e)(i) of the minute of meeting of this Committee held on 1st May, 2014, wherein the applicant was granted a temporary licence. The Committee noted that the applicant had been granted two further temporary licences to allow him to submit his Unique Tax Reference Number. Thereafter, having noted that the applicant had failed to submit their Unique Tax Reference Number, the Committee agreed that the application be considered incompetent.

V HOUSING (SCOTLAND) ACT 2006

(a) HOUSES IN MULTIPLE OCCUPATION - NEW APPLICATIONS

There were submitted the undernoted applications.

In the case of Application Nos 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, having heard a representative of the Housing Department, the Committee agreed that the applications be granted.

In the case of Application No 7, the Committee gave consideration to a letter of objection which had been submitted by a member of the public relevant to this application. Thereafter, having heard a representative of the Housing Department, a representative on behalf of the applicant, the objector to the application and consideration of the advice of the Legal Officer, the Committee agreed that the application be granted and that a report be submitted by the Housing Department on the operation of the licence to the meeting of this Committee to be held in six months' time.

In the case of Application Nos 8 to 12, the Committee agreed that consideration of these applications be deferred to a future meeting of the Committee.

(b) HOUSES IN MULTIPLE OCCUPATION - VARIATIONS

There were submitted the undernoted applications.

In the case of Application Nos 1 to 13, there being no objections, the Committee agreed that the applications be granted.

In the case of Application No 14, the Committee noted that this application had been withdrawn from consideration.

In the case of Application No 15, reference was made to Article IV(b) of the minute of meeting of this Committee held on 6th November, 2014, wherein it was agreed that consideration of the application be deferred to this meeting of the Committee to allow for the applicant to liaise with the Private Sector Services Unit regarding other properties that they managed and to provide clarification of their registration as a landlord. Thereafter, having heard the representative of the Housing Department, the applicant on their own behalf and consideration of the advice of the Legal Officer, the Committee agreed that the application be granted.

(c) HOUSES IN MULTIPLE OCCUPATION - APPLICATION - UPDATE

Reference was made to Article IV(a) of the minute of meeting of the Licensing Committee held on 6th November, 2014, wherein the Committee agreed to defer the update from the Private Sector Services Manager on the operation of the licence at the request of the licence holder.

Thereafter, having heard a representative from the Housing Department and a representative on behalf of the licence holder, the Committee agreed that no further action be taken.

(d) HOUSES IN MULTIPLE OCCUPATION - RENEWAL APPLICATION - UPDATE

Reference was made to Article IV(c) of the minute of meeting of the Licensing Committee held on 4th September, 2014, wherein the Committee agreed to grant the application for renewal but to recall the matter in six months time for an update from the Private Sector Services Manager on the operation of the licence.

The Committee noted that the licence holder was not present and agreed that the matter be considered in their absence.

Thereafter, having heard a representative from the Housing Department and consideration of the advice of the Legal Officer, the Committee agreed that no further action be taken.

The Committee resolved under Section 50(A)(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 that the press and public be excluded from the meeting for the undernoted items of business on the grounds that they involved the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in paragraphs 3, 6 and 9 of Part I of Schedule 7A of the Act.

VI ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR (SCOTLAND) ACT 2004 - REGISTRATION OF CERTAIN LANDLORDS

(i) There was submitted a letter of information from the Housing Department relevant to the registration of Mr R A as a landlord.

The Committee noted that the licence holder was not present and having considered the advice of the Legal Officer, the Committee agreed that consideration of the matter be deferred to the meeting of this Committee to be held on 8th January, 2015.

(ii) There was submitted a letter of information from the Housing Department relevant to the registration of Company B B as a landlord.

The Committee noted that the licence holder was not present and having considered the advice of the Legal Officer, the Committee agreed that consideration of the matter be deferred to the meeting of this Committee to be held on 8th January, 2015.

(iii) Reference was made to Article V of the minute of meeting of this Committee held on 6th November, 2014, wherein it was agreed to defer the hearing in relation to the fitness of Mr C S to be registered as a landlord to this meeting of the Committee.

There was submitted a letter of information from the Housing Department relevant to the registration of Mr C S as a landlord.

The Committee gave consideration to the content of the letter. Thereafter, having heard a representative of the Housing Department, an agent on behalf of the landlord and consideration of the advice of the Legal Officer, the Committee agreed that no further action be taken and that the licence holder be issued with a written warning as to their future conduct and possible repercussions.

VII HOUSING (SCOTLAND) ACT 2006

(a)                           HOUSES IN MULTIPLE OCCUPATION - HEARING

(i) Reference was made to Article II of the minute of meeting of the Licensing Sub‑Committee held on 6th November, 2014, wherein it was agreed to hold a hearing in relation to the suitability of Company D to be the holder of a Houses in Multiple Occupation Licence.

There was submitted a letter of information from the Housing Department relevant to the registration of Company D to be the holder of a Houses in Multiple Occupation Licence.

The Committee noted that the licence holder was not present and having considered the advice of the Legal Officer, the Committee agreed to adjourn the hearing until the meeting of this Committee to be held on 8th January, 2015 to allow the licence holder to be present.

VIII CIVIC GOVERNMENT (SCOTLAND) ACT 1982

(a) SECOND HAND DEALER - NEW APPLICATION

(i) There was submitted an application by Mr A K for a Taxi Drivers Licence.

There was submitted a letter of information from the Chief Constable relevant to this application. The Committee gave consideration to the content of the letter. Thereafter, having heard a representative of the Chief Constable and the applicant on their own behalf, the Committee agreed that the application be granted.

(b) SKIN PIERCING AND TATTOOING - SUSPENSION HEARING AND RENEWAL

(i) Reference was made to Article VIII(b) of the minute of meeting of this Committee held on 1st May, 2014, wherein the Committee agreed to grant the application by Ms SMcL for a Skin Piercing and Tattooist Licence and to recall the matter at this meeting for an update on the operation of the licence from Environmental Health.

There was submitted the original letter of representation from the Environmental Health Department relative to this application. There was also submitted an application by Ms S McL for renewal of the Skin Piercing and Tattooist Licence. Thereafter, having heard a representative of the Environmental Health Department, an agent on behalf of the licence holder and consideration of the advice of the Legal Officer, the Committee agreed to take no further action in relation to the conduct of Ms S McL during the currency of her Skin Piercing and Tattooist Licence and to issue the licence holder with a verbal warning as to their future conduct and to grant the application for renewal of the Skin Piercing and Tattooist Licence held by Ms S McL and that should any further application for renewal be submitted that this be referred to a meeting of the Licensing Committee for consideration.

(c) TAXI DRIVER'S LICENCE - NEW APPLICATIONS

(i) Reference was made to VI(d) of the minute of meeting of this Committee held on 6th November, 2014, wherein consideration of the application by Mr R U for a Taxi Drivers Licence was deferred to await the outcome of court proceedings.

There was submitted an application by Mr R U for a Taxi Drivers Licence.

There was submitted the original letter of objection from the Chief Constable relevant to this application. The Committee gave consideration to the content of the letter. Thereafter, having heard a representative of the Chief Constable, the applicant on their own behalf and consideration of the advice of the Legal Officer, the Committee agreed to further defer consideration of the application until the meeting of this Committee to be held in January, 2015 to await the outcome of court proceedings.

(d) TAXI DRIVER'S LICENCE - SUSPENSION HEARING

(i) Reference was made to Article II of the minute of meeting of the Licensing Sub‑Committee held on 27th October, 2014, wherein it was agreed that the Taxi Driver's Licence held by Mr M C be suspended with immediate effect and a hearing be held in relation to the fitness of Mr M C to be the holder of a Taxi Driver's Licence.

There was submitted a letter of information from the Chief Constable relevant to the conduct of Mr M C during the currency of his Taxi Drivers Licence.

The Committee gave consideration to the content of the letter. Thereafter, having heard a representative of the Chief Constable, the licence holder on their own behalf and consideration of the advice of the Legal Officer, the Committee agreed to recall the suspension of the Taxi Driver's Licence held by Mr M C with immediate effect and that a fresh hearing be held at the meeting of this Committee to be held in January, 2015.

(ii) Reference was made to Article VI(g) of the minute of meeting of the Licensing Committee held on 6th November, 2014, wherein it was agreed to adjourn the hearing in relation to the fitness of Mr S C to be the holder of a Taxi Driver's Licence to await the outcome of court proceedings.

There was submitted a letter of information from the Chief Constable relevant to the conduct of Mr S C during the currency of his Taxi Drivers Licence.

The Committee noted that the licence holder was not present and having heard a representative of the Chief Constable and consideration of the advice of the Legal Officer, the Committee agreed to adjourn the hearing until the meeting of this Committee to be held on 30th April, 2015 to await the outcome of court proceedings.

(iii) Reference was made to Article III(viii) of the minute of meeting of the Licensing Committee held on 28th July, 2014, wherein it was agreed to grant the renewal of the Taxi Driver's Licence held by Mr U K and to adjourn the hearing in relation to the fitness of Mr U K to be the holder of a Taxi Driver's Licence to this meeting of the Committee to await the outcome of court proceedings.

There was submitted a letter of information from the Chief Constable relevant to the conduct of Mr U K during the currency of his Taxi Drivers Licence.

The Committee noted that the licence holder was not present. Thereafter, having heard a representative of the Chief Constable and consideration of the advice of the Legal Officer, the Committee agreed to adjourn the hearing until the meeting of this Committee to be held in January, 2015 to await the outcome of court proceedings.

(iv) Reference was made to Article VIII(f) of the minute of meeting of the Licensing Committee held on 4th September, 2014, wherein it was agreed to recall the immediate suspension of the Taxi Driver's Licence held by Mr S McD and to adjourn the hearing in relation to the fitness of Mr S McD to be the holder of a Taxi Driver's Licence to this meeting of the Committee to await the outcome of court proceedings.

There was submitted a letter of information from the Chief Constable relevant to the conduct of Mr S McD during the currency of his Taxi Drivers Licence.

The Committee noted that the licence holder was not present. Thereafter, having heard a representative of the Chief Constable and consideration of the advice of the Legal Officer, the Committee agreed to adjourn the hearing until the meeting of this Committee to be held in February, 2015 to await the outcome of court proceedings.

(v) Reference was made to Article IV(d) of the minute of meeting of the Licensing Sub‑Committee held on 2nd October 2014, wherein it was agreed to recall the suspension of the Taxi Driver's Licence held by Mr L McP with immediate effect and adjourn the hearing in relation to the fitness of Mr L McP to be the holder of a Taxi Driver's Licence to allow the licence holder to undertake an approved Taxi Driver's Training Course and to await the outcome of court proceedings.

There was submitted a letter of information from the Chief Constable relevant to the conduct of Mr L McP during the currency of his Taxi Drivers Licence.

The Committee gave consideration to the content of the letter. Thereafter, having heard a representative of the Chief Constable, the licence holder on their own behalf and consideration of the advice of the Legal Officer, the Committee agreed to take no further action in relation to the Taxi Driver's Licence held by Mr L McP and to issue the licence holder with a written warning as to their future conduct and to require the licence holder to advise the Licensing Department when he would be undertaking an approved Taxi Driver Training Course which he was required to do within the next six months.

(vi) Reference was made to Article II of the minute of meeting of the Licensing Sub‑Committee held on 28th October, 2014, wherein it was agreed that the Taxi Driver's Licence held by Mr R R be suspended with immediate effect and a hearing be held in relation to the fitness of Mr R R to be the holder of a Taxi Driver's Licence.

There was submitted a letter of information from the Chief Constable relevant to the alleged conduct of Mr R R during the currency of his Taxi Drivers Licence.

The Committee gave consideration to the content of the letter. Thereafter, having heard a representative of the Chief Constable, a representative on behalf of the licence holder, the licence holder on their own behalf and consideration of the advice of the Legal Officer, the Committee agreed to recall the suspension of the Taxi Driver's Licence held by Mr R R with immediate effect and that a fresh hearing be held at the meeting of this Committee to be held in January, 2015.

(vii) Reference was made to Article IV(b) of the minute of meeting of the Licensing Sub‑Committee held on 6th November, 2014, wherein it was agreed that a hearing be held in relation to the fitness of Mr J R to be the holder of a Taxi Driver's Licence.

There was submitted a letter of information from the Environmental Compliance Manager relevant to the conduct of Mr J R during the currency of his Taxi Drivers Licence.

The Committee noted that the licence holder was not present. Thereafter, having heard the Environmental Compliance Manager and consideration of the advice of the Legal Officer, the Committee agreed to adjourn the hearing until the meeting of this Committee to be held in January, 2015.

(viii) Reference was made to Article VI(f) of the minute of meeting of the Licensing Committee held on 6th November, 2014, wherein it was agreed to adjourn the hearing in relation to the Taxi Drivers Licence held by Mr A W to await the report from OHSAS in relation to the fitness of Mr A W to be the holder of a Taxi Driver's Licence.

The Committee noted that the licence holder was not present.

Thereafter, having heard the Clerk, the Committee agreed to adjourn the hearing and that a fresh hearing be held at a meeting of this Committee once the report from OHSAS was received.

(e) TAXI DRIVER'S LICENCE - SUSPENSION HEARING - UPDATE

(i) Reference was made to Article VI(f) of the minute of meeting of the Licensing Committee held on 6th November, 2014, wherein it was agreed to adjourn the hearing in relation to the Taxi Driver's Licence held by Mr B G to allow the licence holder to undertake an approved Taxi Driver Training course.

There was submitted the original letter of information from the Chief Constable relevant to the conduct of Mr B G during the currency of his Taxi Drivers Licence.

The Committee gave consideration to the content of the letter. Thereafter, having heard a representative of the Chief Constable, the licence holder on their own behalf and consideration of the advice of the Legal Officer, the Committee agreed to adjourn the hearing in relation to the Taxi Driver's Licence held by Mr B G until the meeting of this Committee to be held in June, 2015 to allow the licence holder to complete and undertake an approved Taxi Driver Training Course within the next six months and that the Clerk write to the licence holder on courses available.

(f) WINDOW CLEANERS LICENCE - NEW APPLICATION - UPDATE

Reference was made to Article VIII(j) of the minute of meeting of this Committee held on 4th September, 2014, wherein it was agreed to grant the application submitted by Mr A C for a Window Cleaners Licence and that an update on the operation of the licence be provided by Police Scotland at this meeting.

There was submitted the original letter of objection from Police Scotland relevant to this application.

The Committee noted that the licence holder was not present. Thereafter, having heard a representative of the Chief Constable and consideration of the advice of the Legal Officer, the Committee agreed to defer the update in relation to the Window Cleaners Licence held by Mr A C until the meeting of this Committee to be held in April, 2015 to await the outcome of court proceedings.

Stewart HUNTER, Convener.

At a MEETING of the LICENSING SUB-COMMITTEE held at Dundee on 6th November, 2014.

APPENDIX I

Present:-

Councillor Stewart HUNTER

Councillor David BOWES

Councillor Lesley BRENNAN

Councillor Stewart HUNTER, Convener, in the Chair.

Unless marked thus * all items stand delegated.

The Sub-Committee resolved under Section 50(A)(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 that the press and public be excluded from the meeting for the undernoted items of business on the grounds that they involved the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in paragraphs 3, 6 and 9 of Part I of Schedule 7A of the Act.

I DECLARATION OF INTEREST

No declarations of interest were made.

II HMO LICENCE - REQUEST FOR REVOCATION HEARING

There was submitted a letter of information from the Director of Housing relative to the alleged conduct of Mr A B during the currency of his Houses in Multiple Occupation Licence.

The Sub-Committee gave consideration to the content of the letter submitted by the Director of Housing. Thereafter, the Sub-Committee agreed that a hearing be convened in due course in relation to the fitness of Mr A B to be the holder of a Houses in Multiple Occupation Licence.

III REGISTRATION OF CERTAIN LANDLORDS - REQUEST FOR REMOVAL FROM REGISTER

(i) There was submitted a letter of information from the Director of Housing relative to the alleged conduct of Mr R A during the currency of his registration as a landlord.

The Sub-Committee gave consideration to the content of the letter submitted by the Director of Housing. Thereafter, the Sub-Committee agreed that a hearing be convened in due course in relation to the fitness of Mr R A to be registered as a landlord.

(ii) There was submitted a letter of information from the Director of Housing relative to the alleged conduct of Mr R A during the currency of his registration as a landlord.

The Sub-Committee gave consideration to the content of the letter submitted by the Director of Housing. Thereafter, the Sub-Committee agreed that a hearing be convened in due course in relation to the fitness of Mr R A to be registered as a landlord.

IV CIVIC GOVERNMENT (SCOTLAND) ACT 1982

(a) SKIN PIERCING AND TATTOOING LICENCE - REQUEST FOR SUSPENSION HEARING

There was submitted a report from the Environmental Compliance Manager and a letter of complaint from a member of the public relative to the alleged conduct of Ms S McL during the currency of her Skin Piercing and Tattooing Licence.

The Sub-Committee gave consideration to the content of the letter and the report. Thereafter, having considered the advice of the Legal Officer, the Sub-Committee agreed that a hearing be held in due course in relation to the fitness of Ms S McL to be the holder of a the Skin Piercing and Tattooing Licence.

(b) TAXI DRIVER'S LICENCE - REQUEST FOR HEARING

There was submitted a letter of information from the Chief Constable relative to the alleged conduct of Mr J R during the currency of his Taxi Driver's Licence.

The Sub-Committee gave consideration to the content of the letter. Thereafter, having heard the representative of the Chief Constable and consideration of the advice of the Legal Officer, the Sub‑Committee agreed that a hearing be held in due course in relation to the fitness of Mr J R to be the holder of a Taxi Driver's Licence.

Stewart HUNTER, Convener.

At a MEETING of the TAXI LIAISON GROUP held at Dundee on 20th January, 2014.

APPENDIX II

Present:-

DUNDEE CITY COUNCIL OFFICER REPRESENTATIVES

Stuart GALLOWAY, Principal General Services Officer, Corporate Services Department

Brian WOODCOCK, Senior Solicitor, Licensing, Corporate Services Department

Neil GELLATLY, Head of Transportation, City Development Department

TAXI TRADE REPRESENTATIVES

Steve CASHLEY, Dundee 505050 Ltd

Erik THORESEN, Dundee Hackney Association

David YOUNG, Dundee Private Hire Ltd

Graeme STEPHEN, Dundee Taxi Association

Willie LEES, GMB

Wayne OHARE, Dundee Taxis Ltd

Doug INGLIS, Handy Taxis

John CURRAN, Tele Taxis

Chris ELDER, Unite the Union

POLICE SCOTLAND REPRESENTATIVES

John CALDWELL, (Constable)

ALSO IN ATTENDANCE

Steve MACGREGOR, PDM Training and Consultancy Ltd

Charles BEDINGFIELD, PDM Training and Consultancy Ltd

Stuart GALLOWAY, in the Chair.

I MINUTE OF PREVIOUS MEETING

The minute of meeting of the Taxi Liaison Group held on 30th October, 2013 was submitted and noted for information and record purposes.

II DUNDEE CITY COUNCIL

(a) PRESENTATION BY PDM TRAINING AND CONSULTANCY LTD

There was provided a presentation by PDM Training and Consultancy Ltd giving an overview of the Company and outlining the content and direction of the training course they ran for taxi drivers.

The Group noted the presentation and the availability of this course for taxi drivers in addition to other courses currently operated.

(b) POLICY ON ADVERTISING ON TAXIS/PRIVATE HIRE CARS

Stuart Galloway reported on the above matter.

The Group noted that information may be provided to a meeting of the Licensing Committee on the extension of full body wrap advertising subject to an approved CCTV system being installed within the vehicle.

(c) TAXI FARES - UPDATE ON ADVERT

Stuart Galloway reported on the above matter.

The Group noted that no objections had been received and noted the process leading to implementation.

(d) FEES - UPDATE OF FEES FOR 14TH MAY, 2014

Stuart Galloway reported on the above matter.

The Group noted that there had not been an increase in fees for a number of years and that current proposals being considered for the introduction of Taxi Marshals may also be a factor for fees to be increased.

III DUNDEE HACKNEY ASSOCIATION

(a) DAY TO DAY MANAGERS

Erik Thoresen reported on the above matter.

The Group noted that the legal position in relation to day to day managers, and the requirement for licence holders to advise the Council of the position, and that decision on variation would be made by the Licensing Committee.

(b) TAXI DRIVER TRAINING

Erik Thoresen reported on the above matter.

The Group noted that conditions of licence may be examined to include the requirement for operators to have been suitably trained on operation of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles should they wish to operate a wheelchair accessible vehicle.

(c) PUBLIC SECTOR EQUALITY DUTY

Erik Thoresen reported on the above matter.

The Group noted the legal position and that this would require to be observed.

IV DUNDEE TAXI ASSOCIATION

(a) AIRPORT TRANSFERS

Graeme Stephen reported on the above matter.

The Group noted the legal position in relation to airport transfers and Private Hire Licence operation.

(b) TAXI MARSHALS (ANY MOVEMENT)

Graeme Stephen reported on the above matter.

The Group noted difficulties in relation to non-observance of road markings and obtaining of fares at the G Casino and the benefit that introduction of Taxi Marshals may bring to this location.

(c) AFTER A MEETING WITH FRAZER AT THE TESTING STATION, WOULD IT BE AN IDEA TO HAVE THE OPERATOR (LICENCE HOLDER) TO BE WITH TAXI, PRIVATE HIRE FOR TEST?

Graeme Stephen reported on the above matter.

The Group noted the position and the benefits that this proposal may realise.

(d) WOULD IT BE POSSIBLE TO NOT TEST METERS ON 2/3 TESTS - THIS COULD SAVE A LITTLE CASH AND SAVE TESTING TIME?

Graeme Stephen reported on the above matter.

The Group noted the position and that the matter would be further discussed with Police Scotland and the Testing Unit.

(e) LARGE PHOTO OF DRIVER IN SERVICE ON WINDSCREEN (ANY MOVEMENT)?

Graeme Stephen reported on the above matter.

The Group noted the position and that further consideration would be given to the proposal.

(f) TAXI BADGES NEED TO BE LOOKED AT MORE OFTEN

Graeme Stephen reported on the above matter.

The Group noted the position and that drivers may only hold a licensed identification badge if they passed the street knowledge test.

(g) IS IT POSSIBLE TO SEE WORKINGS OUT ON % FOR FARE INCREASE?

Graeme Stephen reported on the above matter.

The Group noted that the information requested would be provided.

V GMB UNION

(a) MIXED FLEET POLICY - FINANCIAL FAIRNESS

The GMB would like to ask Dundee City Council when adapting its new mixed fleet policy? What consideration was given to the financial fairness of requiring wav operators to place more expensive vehicles on service, whilst other operators are allowed to place less expensive saloon cars on service. What can be done to help alleviate wav operators' aggrievance to the financial difference.

Willie Lees reported on the above matter.

The Group noted the position and the processes which would be observed in providing a mixed fleet policy and that following renewal of licence by operators the nature of current fleet may become more apparent.

(b) PICKING UP AT THE BACK OF TAXI RANKS

What can be done about this unfair practice? Condition 17 of the Taxi Drivers Licence explains how a taxi rank should be worked fairly this unfair practice is out of control and needs to be addressed.

Willie Lees reported on the above matter.

The Group noted the position and that customer choice was a factor in this.

(c) SVQ TRAINING ISSUES

The GMB would like to discuss a number of issues regarding SVQ training.

The Group noted that this matter had been covered on the agenda.

VI UNITE THE UNION

(a) Operators should take their own taxi up for taxi test (it should not be a day to day Manager on a Single Operator's Plate). Day to Day Manager is all right on an actual Company Plate;

The Group noted that this matter had been covered on the agenda.

(b) With the Council bringing in training for all Taxi Badge Holders, all Taxi Operators/Company Owners should also have to do the training. (It could help to stop Plate hiring);

Chris Elder reported on the above matter.

The Group noted the position and that the matter may be given further consideration.

(c) There are no toilet facilities for taxi drivers to use near taxi ranks;

Chris Elder reported on the above matter.

The Group noted that Taxi Offices had toilet facilities and that the availability of public toilets would be raised with the Environment Department.

(d) Festive tariff to start at 6.00 am instead of 6.00 pm; and

Chris Elder reported on the above matter.

The Group noted the position and that the operation of the festive tariff had been established with consideration to festive workers requiring transport.

(e) Taxi Ranks (lack of).

Chris Elder reported on the above matter.

The Group noted that the Head of Transportation was continuing to monitor the position.

Stuart GALLOWAY, Chair.

At a MEETING of the TAXI LIAISON GROUP held at Dundee on 17th February, 2014.

APPENDIX III

Present:-

DUNDEE CITY COUNCIL OFFICER REPRESENTATIVES

Stuart GALLOWAY, Principal General Services Officer, Corporate Services Department

Brian WOODCOCK, Senior Solicitor, Licensing, Corporate Services Department

Neil GELLATLY, Head of Transportation, City Development Department

TAXI TRADE REPRESENTATIVES

Steve CASHLEY, Dundee 505050 Ltd

Erik THORESEN, Dundee Hackney Association

David YOUNG, Dundee Private Hire Ltd

Graeme STEPHEN, Dundee Taxi Association

Willie LEES, GMB

Doug INGLIS, Handy Taxis

John CURRAN, Tele Taxis

Chris ELDER, Unite the Union

POLICE SCOTLAND REPRESENTATIVES

John CALDWELL, (Constable)

Cammy FORBES, (Constable)

Stuart GALLOWAY, in the Chair.

I DUNDEE CITY COUNCIL

(a) TAXI DRIVER TRAINING PILOT EVALUATION

There was circulated a document providing feedback of those drivers who took part in training at Dundee College.

The Group noted the content of the evaluation as provided and the opportunity to make deputation to the meeting of the Licensing Committee to be held on 27th March, 2014, should they so wish.

(b) TAXI MARSHALS PROPOSAL - COSTINGS

Stuart Galloway reported on Taxi Marshals Proposal - costings. It was indicated that costs would be applied at time of renewal of Taxi Driver Licence and that these would amount to approximately 30 per driver. The benefits of the establishment of Taxi Marshals were highlighted for the provision of order and control particularly in the vicinity of G-Casino and that they could contribute positively towards public safety and also for the safety of taxi drivers and patrons. The proposal was for the appointment of two positions of Taxi Marshals and that this would be funded for a period of three years. It was also highlighted the other roles of Taxi Marshals would be to encourage the proper use of ranking and full training would be undertaken and provided to Taxi Marshals on issues including laws in which they would be required to uphold.

The Group noted that the proposal for the introduction of two Taxi Marshals would be reported to the meeting of the Licensing Committee and that members of the Group and interested parties would have the opportunity to make deputation to the Committee should they so wish.

(c) TAXI FEES - IMPACT OF TAXI MARSHAL COSTINGS

The Group noted that there may be option to give consideration to the impact of Taxi Marshals costings at conclusion of pilot period should it be considered that there were other means of providing for their costings over a period of peak demand for service.

(d) TAXI RANKS - INCLUDING POSSIBILITY OF DROP OFF POINT IN NETHERGATE

The Group noted anecdotal evidence from drivers who had undertaken the pilot course for Taxi Driver training and that they considered that there may be opportunities for the area between Debenhams and the City Square to be utilised as a drop-off area for passengers.

The Group noted that drivers may drop off passengers by the side of the road where double yellow lines were present unless the kerb was marked with two or three yellow stripes.

Stuart GALLOWAY, Chair.

At a MEETING of the TAXI LIAISON GROUP held at Dundee on 26th May, 2014.

APPENDIX IV

Present:-

DUNDEE CITY COUNCIL OFFICER REPRESENTATIVES

Stuart GALLOWAY, Principal General Services Officer, Corporate Services Department

Brian WOODCOCK, Senior Solicitor, Licensing, Corporate Services Department

TAXI TRADE REPRESENTATIVES

Steve CASHLEY, Dundee 505050 Ltd

Erik THORESEN, Dundee Hackney Association

David YOUNG, Dundee Private Hire Ltd

Graeme STEPHEN, Dundee Taxi Association

Wayne O'HARE, Dundee Taxi Ltd

Willie LEES, GMB

John CURRAN, Tele Taxis

Chris ELDER, Unite the Union

Stuart GALLOWAY, in the Chair.

I DUNDEE CITY COUNCIL

(a) TAXI DRIVER TRAINING VRQ

There was tabled a training proposal for VRQ Level 2 - Introduction to Role of the Professional Taxi Driver and Private Hire. The training would be delivered on-site at Dundee & Angus College, Kingsway Campus, Old Glamis Road, Dundee. It was reported that the role of the professional taxi and private hire driver was a QCF Level 2 Qualification and was intended for those working for or aspiring to work as a taxi driver or private hire driver. It was a VRQ vocationally related qualification and consisted of nine mandatory units which covered key issues in the taxi and private hire work environment. The world host customer service training was also imbedded in the delivery which would assist in raising the profile and service standards. The qualification met the required criteria that were recommended by the Licensing Committee for Dundee City Council. The course would be delivered through a variety of models to suit the shift patterns of the drivers which would include scheduled workshops and self-directed study over a maximum period of four weeks. Additional to this, tutor support would be provided if required.

The mandatory units were:-

- health and safety in the taxi and private hire work environment;

- road safety when driving passengers in a taxi or private hire vehicle;

- professional customer service in the taxi and private hire industry;

- taxi and private hire vehicle maintenance and safety inspections;

- regulatory framework of the taxi and private hire industry;

- taxi and private hire services for passengers who require assistance;

- routes and fares in the taxi and private hire vehicles industries;

- transporting parcels, luggage and other items in the taxi and private hire industries;

- transporting of children and young persons by taxi or private hire vehicle.

Additional units would be world host principles of customer service.

Each unit would be assessed externally using the SAQ assessment system. The cost of the course would be approximately 400 per candidate. The principles of world host were explained and it was highlighted that the ambition of the city was to become a world host destination in light of the regeneration of Dundee Waterfront along with the new V & A Museum of Design, Dundee which would physically transform the city with a new station new hotels and new investment in leisure facilities including a marina at City Quay. World host aimed to offer and rival customer service experience for the entire visitor journey and the Council had started training their key staff including refuse collectors, parking attendants and front of house leisure staff, the Overgate, the Wellgate and a number of bars, restaurants and independent shops who had also seen the value of the aims of becoming a world host destination and had sought to undertake the world host course. The course offered by Dundee and Angus College would also serve to be another course for selection for interested parties in the taxi trade to further their participation and choice. It was highlighted that course providers were also keen to involve as many representatives from the taxi trade as possible in the delivery of courses in the capacity as tutors. Further to this, assistance would be available for any course participants who may consider themselves to require further assistance in understanding language or attainment possibilities.

The Group noted the position.

(b) TESTING CENTRE - SEAT COVERS

Graeme Stephen highlighted a particular matter in relation to requirements of taxi test concerning the use of seat covers on the back seat and the difficulties incurred by operators to accord with this requirement.

The Group noted that staff at the Testing Centre were looking at this matter and may seek to amend the requirements of the test to make allowance for this facility.

(c) TESTING CENTRE - PAINTWORK CHECK

Graeme Stephen highlighted the issue in relation to paintwork checks and concern that the 21 day period was not being adhered to by operators when required to report to the Testing Centre on suitable repairs.

The Group noted the importance to adhere to this requirement and that the non-adherence of this by taxi operators would be discussed with staff at the Testing Centre with a view to enforcement action being carried out for those taxi operators who were not adhering to the requirements.

(d) CARRIAGE OF GROCERIES AND CHILDREN WITHIN PEUGEOT E7 VEHICLES

John Curran raised the matter of the carriage of groceries and children with Peugeot E7 vehicles.

The Group noted that this issue would be examined and that in the meantime it was considered that there may be legislation provided by the Department of Transport which allowed for this.

(e) TAXI LICENCE HOLDER BADGE IDENTIFICATION - NAMES ON TAXI BADGES

Chris Elder raised the above matter.

The Group noted that the names of licence holders would remain on taxi badges until next renewal period at which time they would be removed.

Stuart GALLOWAY, Chair.