Rise in assaults on Derry taxi drivers

Concern has been raised over the safety of taxi drivers in Derry City.
It follows a spike in assaults on taxi drivers, particularly at night time and around city centre in recent months.
In a statement, Foyle MP Elisha McCallion has said no one should be subject to fear, intimidation or assault while going about their business and providing a much needed service to the community:
“Reports of assaults on taxi drivers in the city, as well as an incident during which a taxi was hijacked at knifepoint, are very concerning.
“I have been engaging with taxi drivers and taxi companies as part of an initiative to support and develop the night-time economy in the city and it is clear there is concern among drivers, particularly about working at night and, as a result, it is becoming more difficult to recruit more drivers into the industry.
“I have also been in discussions with the PCSP in relation to proposals to improve driver safety, including the possible provision of cameras in taxis to improve safety for both drivers and passengers.
“Taxis play a key role in our night-time economy and it is important that drivers are able to earn a living without fear of assault.
“I would encourage anyone with information on any of the weekend incidents to bring it forward to the PSNI.”