Cork Company, Satellite Taxis awarded first license in Ireland
Innovative Cork Taxi Company, Satellite Taxis is the first in Ireland to be officially licensed by the Taxi Regulator. Under new legislation, all dispatch operators and taxi companies must obtain a license before year end as a stipulation in order to operate.
This good news comes in the midst of a difficult period for Cork Taxis, and Satellite Taxis with a fleet of over 70 cars believes that the key to working through the testing time is being more pro-active and inventive. “There’s no doubting that the market for taxis is highly competitive at the moment.
However, it’s vital to be ahead of the competition with new ideas, technology and the highest possible standard of service,” said Der Calnan, Managing Director of Satellite Taxis. “We’re delighted with the announcement that we are first, not just in Cork but in the whole of Ireland to be awarded the Category 1 license. It’s another first in a long line for Satellite Taxis.”
The license is awarded after a number of measures are implemented by the taxi company in line with the new operating standards. Initially, a nominated individual must pass the SPSV (Small Public Service Vehicles) Skills Development Test which tests their knowledge under a series of job related categories. The company must then demonstrate an appropriate staff training structure in place for customer care, customer complaints, fare structure and assisting people with disabilities. Other stipulations include; a booking system which is accessible to people with disabilities, phone booking plus fax, email or SMS booking, booking records for a minimum of 6 months and up-to-date driver and vehicle records. All the above must be available for sporadic inspection by a Commission Enforcement Officer.
Satellite Taxis has grown rapidly since its conception in February 2007 and prides itself on the ability to provide an efficient and proficient service. They were the first company in Cork to use a fully computerised GPS or Fleet Management System with satellite navigation that includes in-car credit card swipes and CCTV as well as another first with uniformed drivers.