Strike by taxi industry further exacerbating the transport problems impacting business

18 September 2017 

“The impending strike by the minibus taxi industry will further exacerbate the transport problems that business is experiencing in the region,” says the Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

“We are already dealing with a disrupted and inefficient rail service compounded by a traffic congestion problem,” said Ms Janine Myburgh, President of the Chamber, “so this could very well be the proverbial straw that breaks the camel’s back.”

The lack of clear leadership in the taxi industry needs to be addressed, and the Chamber urges all parties concerned to come to some provisional agreement in the short term, because business can ill afford another blow to operating efficiency in what is already very challenging economic times.

“The taxi industry is of the belief that vehicles have been impounded unfairly, said Ms Myburgh, “and if that is the case, this could be due to one of two factors: a large number of taxis being non-compliant in terms of safety and fines, or a system that is not impartial and fair.”  Road safety cannot be compromised and the rule of law needs to be upheld. “If there is any potential for corruption in the system, this needs to be identified and eradicated,” Ms Myburgh said.

The taxi industry also needs to understand that the strike will force people to find other modes of transport, and people may very well migrate to alternatives with some not returning to using minibus taxis. “This strike is bad news for everyone concerned,” said Ms Myburgh, “and when business suffers so does our community.” The Chamber trusts that all parties meeting at the Wynberg Military Base tomorrow will understand the social impact at risk should they not reach an agreement – our economy depends on it, and ultimately the well-being of our workers.

Issued by Dean Le Grange, Media and Digital Coordinator, Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry, 18 September 2017