You lot
are you watching?
The people of this city are sick and tired of your ineptitued.
I have just got a taxi with the same number and a fourth different driver.
Why is this?
Have the councilors got any idea on what is happening?
Just like the government clueless?
Sorry for the grammar totally peeved.

I am a councillor and a member of the Licensing Board.

A taxi is not licensed to a particular driver. Some taxis are family owned or rented out, and thus you can expect to see different drivers driving the same vehicle. All drivers should be licensed - always check the details of the driver when you get in a cab.

You lot
are you watching?
The people of this city are sick and tired of your ineptitued.
I have just got a taxi with the same number and a fourth different driver.
Why is this?
Have the councilors got any idea on what is happening?
Just like the government clueless?
Sorry for the grammar totally peeved.
FOURTH!! blimey, to get the same car 4 times is well impressive!!

There's that bloody many now.

I think it's corrupt councillors we need to worry about, they're all useless by and large, lets winkle out those that are at it.

I think it's corrupt councillors we need to worry about, they're all useless by and large, lets winkle out those that are at it.

Lets not winkle out the ones that allow me to continue working:);)

You lot
are you watching?
The people of this city are sick and tired of your ineptitued.
I have just got a taxi with the same number and a fourth different driver.
Why is this?
Have the councilors got any idea on what is happening?
Just like the government clueless?
Sorry for the grammar totally peeved.

Perhaps it's not ineptitude but just people doing their job corrcetly?

This is common - I asked a driver about it once and he said that he and his brother owned the cab jointly because the the costs involved and operated it jointly.

SO, if you're really bothered, why not get the number of the taxi and report it to the proper authorities, rather than rant here? Or would that be too much effort?

I'm sorry, but I get well peeved at a small number of people on here, some with a distinct agenda of their own, venting their spleen against the Council when they know bugger all about what actually happens.

I think it's corrupt councillors we need to worry about, they're all useless by and large, lets winkle out those that are at it.


When can we expect you to stand, Andrew?

You have such a low opinion that you must be able to do the job beter than the current incumbents? Perhaps you could stand as an independent?

When can we expect you to stand, Andrew?

You have such a low opinion that you must be able to do the job beter than the current incumbents? Perhaps you could stand as an independent?

Easy Joe!
Posting on the forum is a good way of venting spleen. Just because someone has a problem and wants to moan does not mean they have to stand fort council to sort it.

However Redrobbo shows that not all councillors are bad and has also been able to answer a question quickly and efficeiently without putting the burden on an already busy licensing department

Nice one Red - glad you are back!:D

As for the issue itself. Actually the licensing team in Sheffield do a good job. In Barnsley a third of all cabs were deemed unroadworthy recently. That would not be the case in Sheffield.

Everyone has a bad story about cabbies. Just like any other service. But they are well rtegulated in Sheffield. Infact there was a real shortage a few years ago and it was impossible to get one on a Friday night.

More drivers using the same taxi as long as it regulated and tested regularily is a good use of resources.

The people of this city are sick and tired of your ineptitued.
So how come we keep voting them back in? :suspect:

I didn't know that half of Sheffield could use the same cab so thanks for that little peice of information.
What i didn't mention but was probably my point is that the cab number i recognised but in no place did i see his personal ID number which is against the rules is it not?
For all i know it could be someone with no insurance and cannot drive in this country legally so where would that leave my wife and child if something happened to the cab en route home?
I have posted on a similar thread not so long ago and it winds me up no end when the taxi driver doesn't know where Prince of Wales road is and for a taxi driver not to know where part of the ring road is raises some questions does it not?

You lot
are you watching?
The people of this city are sick and tired of your ineptitued.
I have just got a taxi with the same number and a fourth different driver.
Why is this?
Have the councilors got any idea on what is happening?
Just like the government clueless?
Sorry for the grammar totally peeved.
Was it a black taxi and being driven by an Asian?
I think I might've seen him too, he works in our local takaway as well :hihi::hihi:

Couldn't care less who the taxi driver is i just dislike having to do someone elses job for them.
Once or twice no problem if the taxi driver is honest and says he or she has not being doing the job for long and not totally sure of specific routes then fair enough.
When i would say the percentage is fifty fifty as to whether i have to direct the cab for them then it gets a bit irritating.
Perhaps the council who hand out these licences should physically go out with the person wanting a licence and instead of just a written test make them do a similar test to the driving one.
By making a potential taxi driver do two tests instead of one then that brings down the odds of someone getting a licence illegally.

I think there should be a knowledge test for taxi drivers. And a secret shopper system.

I think there should be a knowledge test for taxi drivers.
There is. Also, extremely comprehensive checks into their background are made at the point of license application.

And a secret shopper system.
Their operating license has to be renewed at least every 18 months, at which point their performance is taken into consideration.

I think there should be a knowledge test for taxi drivers. And a secret shopper system.

already is a two part knowledge test

already is a two part knowledge test

Good. I like it.

Active members of SF would note that taxis and their drivers and failings have been discussed so often here that it is getting a little boring. Either some people don't bother reading anything or maybe have some problem with taking in what they read. To see such lack of common sense with repetitive posts is worrying. What is funnier still is that these hapless individuals then offer advice as how government and other aspects of society should be run. They demand of others like councillors bus and taxi drivers to have certain standards then haven't we a right also to demand some proof of respectable level of intellect from these posters before we do as asked.

........... at which point their performance is taken into consideration.

It sounds good, but how is this assessed?

i never use blackcabs myself, but i did read a story about how ladies have to be carefull in sheffield when they are alone getting a cab, it was in the sheffield star a week ago or somthing! it was about a lady who nearly got attacked by the owner of the cab , the owner put the locks on , so the lady could not get out!
if i can find the link ill put it on,
"but my point is please ladys try catch a cab together when you go out at night"

The other side of it could also be that the lady was trying to make an exit befor she had paid for her journey!

The other side of it could also be that the lady was trying to make an exit befor she had paid for her journey!And he probably used threatening language like,” I’ll take to the cop shop" or dirty words like,” can you pay your fare please?" How dare these cab drivers insult our ladies like this? Be afraid, be very afraid!!!!!!:hihi::hihi:

Personally being a taxi driver the man does have a point. Rather than half the licensing board sitting in their cosy little office at the town hall printing out licenses altime and increasing taxi renewals altime why don't they actually go down to places like the station and check each hackney carriage regularly? Its simple really.

Instead they just wait at the station for private hire drivers to turn up and scrutinise our documentation etc.

The amount of money they generate from us it wouldn't be hard to employ regular marshalls to make the standard of service better and fairer. But instead the money is probably channelled off to some other worthy cause like a new conservatory for councillor *****.:D

The other side of it could also be that the lady was trying to make an exit befor she had paid for her journey!

no its nothing like that , theres been a few cab drivers doing the same to ladys on there own, police have been involved with this , and even there advice was try get a cab together ie safer in numbers!:roll:

i cant find link, it was a double page thing in sheffield star!

It sounds good, but how is this assessed?

Suprasteve may have been referring to a recent post of mine on another thread - which I reproduce below....

As a member of the council's Licensing Board, I can confirm that all licensed taxi and private hire applicants undergo a criminal record check.

Taxi and private hire applicants are exempt from all 'spent' convictions, and must themselves declare any convictions they have, including criminal convictions and road traffic offences - including points on a license (whether current or past). A check is also made with the Driver Vehicle Licensing Authority to verify the history of the license holder.

Any applicant with a history of certain criminal convictions is automatically referred to the Licensing Board - who will determine if they are "a fit and proper person" to hold a license.

There is a police referral system to the licensing authority should an existing licensed driver be charged with a serious criminal offence - which results in the automatic suspension of the license. Should a licensed driver be convicted of a serious criminal offence, the license is automatically revoked.

License renewals are usully automatic unless the driver has acquired a certain number of points on his license, and possibly been given an official warning, which may include any complaint(s) received, e.g., use of horn outside permitted hours, or some infringement of the license, e.g., not wearing badge - which would have been discovered on a spot check, etc.

The Licensing Board judge each case on the facts of the case, and the driver must attend - and can be represented by a friend or a solicitor. The Licensing Board have a number of options to consider, including renewal of license, renewal for a shorter period, re-appearance before the Board, compulsory re-taking of the driving/knowledge test, compulsory re-examination of the vehicle, verbal or written warning, removal of license. Some of these options can be taken together.

Personally being a taxi driver the man does have a point. Rather than half the licensing board sitting in their cosy little office at the town hall printing out licenses altime and increasing taxi renewals altime why don't they actually go down to places like the station and check each hackney carriage regularly? Its simple really.

Instead they just wait at the station for private hire drivers to turn up and scrutinise our documentation etc.

The amount of money they generate from us it wouldn't be hard to employ regular marshalls to make the standard of service better and fairer. But instead the money is probably channelled off to some other worthy cause like a new conservatory for councillor *****.:D

A number of points in this post....

1) It is licensing section staff who process licenses, not the Licensing Board (which is comprised of 3 councillors who determine whether a driver/applicant is "a fit and proper person).
2) Licensing staff undertake regular spot checks, but if they confined their spot checks to the railway station, that would not be an efficient way of conducting their activities. They undertake spot checks in different parts of the city, e.g., Woodseats, Chapletown, etc., including at weekends and after midnight. NB. A Licensing staff member was recently injured by a sudden drive-off when the driver was approached for his credentials. {He was probably able to recover once he got back to his cosy office though?}.
3) As a member of the Licensing Board, I wasn't aware that I was entitled to have money siphoned off to have a conservatory. Hmm, it's amazing how ignorant some councillors can be - or probably more likely how ignorant some posters appear to be.

<snip>
I assume from your post that you had as good a night as I did?


Still onwards and upwards:)

:gag:

I assume from your post that you had as good a night as I did?

I burnt 20 quid of diesel and took 58 quid in fares. (3 NPU's goosed by hackneys and one twit (not quite my wording at the time) ordered 2 comps, and the other driver CITY, didn't drive off!!:mad: I shall be speaking with their night despatch tomorrow about him and his ethics.)
Friday night:rolleyes:

Still onwards and upwards:)

:gag:

Can you just run that by me in an argot I can comprehend? :hihi:

Honestly, I think 'Popeye' having a bad night is hardly sufficient reason to accuse elected members (councillors) of corruption in public office. People really get my goat with their total ignorance of 'how things work' especially if/when they're actually involved in providing the service they're badmouthing. If he's a cabbie he should know more about licensing and not be repeating the sort of ill informed, scurrilous gossip he hears whilst lounging around on the rank waiting for people to walk half a mile to get into his cab. Pah!

Easy Joe!
Posting on the forum is a good way of venting spleen. Just because someone has a problem and wants to moan does not mean they have to stand fort council to sort it.



Exactly. Why hasn't he closed this thread ???
.
.
.

Exactly. Why hasn't he closed this thread ???
.
.
.
Someone hasn't been paying attention have they? :rolleyes:

:hihi:

Hmm, it's amazing how ignorant some councillors can be - or probably more likely how ignorant some posters appear to be.

In that case why have we got some of the most ridiculous laws relating to taxi licensing. you guys on the board really don't appear to live in the real world. i'll attempt to explain
1. we can't use lpb vehicles unless they are produced by the manufacturer. so how many cars are there? let me see- vauxhall vectra duel fuel which there are about 5. Even if we got the conversion done up to the same standard we still can't use this cleaner fuel. Other councils allow this yet ours won't. I could save thousands a year on fuel bills and its a cleaner fuel for the environment.
2.Barmy rules on people carriers having to take middle seat out for access. If these are being used for airport runs since when do people find it impossible to fold the seat down and sit in the back? Instead the council tell you to remove a seat and lower the vehicle to their height. Sports springs will do the job hence making the ride that much more uncomfortable for the passengers etc. We have a scenario where old battered ford transits are the only vehicle that can pass the 5 seat over test which are far more unsafe on the roads than any new people carrier.

These are but a few of the rules our great licensing board are using.

In answer to the question regarding my grievances with this fine selection of panel members due to 'low takings on a friday night' then RubyDazzler you my mukka are deluded pure and simple. You guys make it up as you go along. chinese whispers lol.

LOL Ash didn't work last night but this morning and it was pretty dire too. Might get myself a Hackney at this rate and join the back of the gravytrain at the station. :thumbsup:


Opps just forgot to add i'm sure if the licensing authority stayed at the station and checked everyone out it would be hugely cost efficient. All they have to do is walk over from the town hall and at least every cabbie goes to the station once a day/week so all in all you'd fry all the fish in one basket. And here's me thinking us taxi drivers had no brains???? Problem solved in about a year!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BTW redrobbo when you been promised that new extension? lol.

Can you just run that by me in an argot I can comprehend? :hihi:

Honestly, I think 'Popeye' having a bad night is hardly sufficient reason to accuse elected members (councillors) of corruption in public office. People really get my goat with their total ignorance of 'how things work' especially if/when they're actually involved in providing the service they're badmouthing. If he's a cabbie he should know more about licensing and not be repeating the sort of ill informed, scurrilous gossip he hears whilst lounging around on the rank waiting for people to walk half a mile to get into his cab. Pah!
This is perhapse an illustration of why we shouldn't consider all taxi drivers as of same standard.

This is perhapse an illustration of why we shouldn't consider all taxi drivers as of same standard.

Makes me wonder what sort of people are reading my tongue in cheek stuff. The referance to the 'conservatory' and 'cosy little office' was perhaps cynical????:huh: However if you still feel the need to judge me on this then you are the better man and i salute you. :thumbsup:

at least every cabbie goes to the station once a day/week so all in all you'd fry all the fish in one basket. And here's me thinking us taxi drivers had no brains???? Problem solved in about a year!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BTW redrobbo when you been promised that new extension? lol.
I take it your lack of knowledge about black cabs stems from being isolated in private hire. World isn't always as you imagined and forums like SF are educating people all the time through sharing knowledge and experiences. I suggest you talk to people in your own trade and make the effort to find out how systems work that affect your life. Then you will be in a position to advise others, but from your posts that is a long way off yet.
Every black cab does not work at the station and I'll let you ask someone else the reason why.;)

In that case why have we got some of the most ridiculous laws relating to taxi licensing. you guys on the board really don't appear to live in the real world. i'll attempt to explain
1. we can't use lpb vehicles unless they are produced by the manufacturer. so how many cars are there? let me see- vauxhall vectra duel fuel which there are about 5. Even if we got the conversion done up to the same standard we still can't use this cleaner fuel. Other councils allow this yet ours won't. I could save thousands a year on fuel bills and its a cleaner fuel for the environment.
2.Barmy rules on people carriers having to take middle seat out for access. If these are being used for airport runs since when do people find it impossible to fold the seat down and sit in the back? Instead the council tell you to remove a seat and lower the vehicle to their height. Sports springs will do the job hence making the ride that much more uncomfortable for the passengers etc. We have a scenario where old battered ford transits are the only vehicle that can pass the 5 seat over test which are far more unsafe on the roads than any new people carrier.

These are but a few of the rules our great licensing board are using.

In answer to the question regarding my grievances with this fine selection of panel members due to 'low takings on a friday night' then RubyDazzler you my mukka are deluded pure and simple. You guys make it up as you go along. chinese whispers lol.

LOL Ash didn't work last night but this morning and it was pretty dire too. Might get myself a Hackney at this rate and join the back of the gravytrain at the station. :thumbsup:


Opps just forgot to add i'm sure if the licensing authority stayed at the station and checked everyone out it would be hugely cost efficient. All they have to do is walk over from the town hall and at least every cabbie goes to the station once a day/week so all in all you'd fry all the fish in one basket. And here's me thinking us taxi drivers had no brains???? Problem solved in about a year!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BTW redrobbo when you been promised that new extension? lol.

If you have some practical suggestions to make about the use of lpb vehicles and seating in people carriers, can I suggest that you make your views known to one of the taxi trade associations - who can make an application on your behalf to the Licensing Board for a change in the conditions of operation.

In respect of your claim that spot checks should only be conducted at the railway station - you simply ignore the fact that some drivers only operatie in the suburbs of the city, e.g., Chapletown, Stocksbridge.
In addition, you overlook the necessity for spot checks to be undertaken in such areas as Woodseats - where unlicensed drivers have been apprehended in a joint operation between Licensing staff and the police.

Licensing checks need an element of surprise - and if spot checks were solely carried out at the railway station, word would soon get out, and any rogue drivers would avoid the station completely. Rather than solving any problems "in about a year", as you claim, your suggestion would more than likely exacerbate any problems.

I regard your imputation - that as a member of the Licensing Board I am corrupted - as a disreputable slur on my integrity as a councilllor. If you have evidence of corruption, e.g., "conservatory", "new extension", kindly take your ill-founded accusations to the Standards Board for England rather than bad mouthing me on SF.

I regard your imputation - that as a member of the Licensing Board I am corrupted - as a disreputable slur on my integrity as a councilllor. If you have evidence of corruption, e.g., "conservatory", "new extension", kindly take your ill-founded accusations to the Standards Board for England rather than bad mouthing me on SF.

I take it you haven't read my post fully. Since when was i bad mouthing you? I was being CYNICAL??? Ever heard of the term? This sort of knee-jerk reaction to my posts really do makes you look rather silly old chap :loopy::D

And as you clearly know alot more about the licensing trade than me you have clearly gone the diplomatic route and not answered any of my questions on this.

I have never seen spot checks routinely done in sheffield fullstop and have being cabbying around 4 years. If you can't do the station then i suggest ecclesall road maybe outside the Nursery Tavern? Or maybe Castle Market? I don't need a level of knowledge of Hackney Carriage drivers or even Private Hire to know when and where to pull em.

Anyway it amazes me how people get so worked up over stuff. Chill with the still people

I can see a padlock and the word 'closing' coming pretty soon.

The nature of this thread is outside the scope and standards of Sheffield Forum and would be better continued elsewhere in my opinion.

If you have some practical suggestions to make about the use of lpb vehicles
I am willing to learn but hasn't it always been known as LPG rather than lpb? Or is it something I don't know about?:o

I can see a padlock and the word 'closing' coming pretty soon.

The nature of this thread is outside the scope and standards of Sheffield Forum and would be better continued elsewhere in my opinion.

MOD: This thread is going to stay open for the time being but it would be nice for people not to make libellous remarks about councillors' probity and an apology would be in order.

You lot
are you watching?
The people of this city are sick and tired of your ineptitued.
I have just got a taxi with the same number and a fourth different driver.
Why is this?
Have the councilors got any idea on what is happening?
Just like the government clueless?
Sorry for the grammar totally peeved.

Am I missing something stupid here ... what does it matter if the taxi driver is different each time .. I couldnt care less so long as he gets me from A to B in a reasonable time and at reasonable pice and is reasonably polite .... dont want to have a life-time relationship with him !

Right for the not so bright.
I get taxis probably every Friday and Saturday evening/night and get asked for directions to where i live ( Prince of Wales Road ) every other cab.
I have been a driver 24 years and have been told of some of the questions and how difficult the test is by a friend of mine that passed his about six months ago.
Now it doesn't take a genius to work out that someone hasn't took the test is he/she doesn't know where or how to get to where i want to go.
So to all those that are getting vexed with this if you see my other post we are falling behind the other cities and i dont want to be held to ransom by a taxi driver because i want a drink at whatever time i want.
The service of hackney cabs is getting worse by the week and i for one think that someone should at least investigate to see if there truly is a problem, which there obviously is.

I ordered a private hire cab recently & the driver could hardly speak or read English! How did he pass the driving test or the knowledge exam???

MOD: This thread is going to stay open for the time being but it would be nice for people not to make libellous remarks about councillors' probity and an apology would be in order.

If you think i am lowering myself to apologise for a comment that wasn't even serious then you are wrong. The amount of libellous remarks about taxi drivers on here beggars belief YET do you mods ever get involved????? Yet the word 'conservatory' and you guys are all frothing at the mouth spouting libellous nonsense. A name mentioned would be libellous. Its like saying coppers/traffic/blues and twos/teabreak???? OMG so libellous!!!!

I've stated my comments and if people can't see them for what they were, then i have no time for this media circus either. Jeremy Clarkson would lap this post up i tell ya. A Bientot :thumbsup:

Right for the not so bright.
I get taxis probably every Friday and Saturday evening/night and get asked for directions to where i live ( Prince of Wales Road ) every other cab.
I have been a driver 24 years and have been told of some of the questions and how difficult the test is by a friend of mine that passed his about six months ago.
Now it doesn't take a genius to work out that someone hasn't took the test is he/she doesn't know where or how to get to where i want to go.
So to all those that are getting vexed with this if you see my other post we are falling behind the other cities and i dont want to be held to ransom by a taxi driver because i want a drink at whatever time i want.
The service of hackney cabs is getting worse by the week and i for one think that someone should at least investigate to see if there truly is a problem, which there obviously is.
It may have something to with your own approach. It's only when a driver knows his way that he asks where abouts you going so that he can choose one of four available routs. Is it so difficult to say lsft off the Parkway or right or even manor top end or even through manor park or even darnall? From tone of your posts you have made up your mind that no one is as good as your mate and as long as they are Asians they must be clueless and illegal too.
I agree standards need to be improved but having preconcieved ideas does not help.

If you think i am lowering myself to apologise for a comment that wasn't even serious then you are wrong. The amount of libellous remarks about taxi drivers on here beggars belief YET do you mods ever get involved????? Yet the word 'conservatory' and you guys are all frothing at the mouth spouting libellous nonsense. A name mentioned would be libellous. Its like saying coppers/traffic/blues and twos/teabreak???? OMG so libellous!!!!

I've stated my comments and if people can't see them for what they were, then i have no time for this media circus either. Jeremy Clarkson would lap this post up i tell ya. A Bientot :thumbsup: I think a more imortant point was that you weren't too well informed about workings of your own trade, and everything else just stems from that. It may never come to court of Law but most of us stick to etiquette of the forum, it's hardly a big ask.

NB. A Licensing staff member was recently injured by a sudden drive-off when the driver was approached for his credentials. 'redrobbo'

errrr is it me or has every chosen to ignore this bit of his thread, surely someone doing their 'job' not obviously sta inthere nice office should be at least commended for trying to protect the public?

so all the drivers on her one question:

do your brothers/sons/nephews/cousins drive your cabs whilst un-insured /not licensed etc. so your on here giving it large and your the GUILTY PARTIES?

answers on a post card to:

i've got a license and a cab so the rest of my family can drive ILLEGALLY
c/o scc TAXI LICENSING
TOWN HALL

I think a more imortant point was that you weren't too well informed about workings of your own trade, and everything else just stems from that. It may never come to court of Law but most of us stick to etiquette of the forum, it's hardly a big ask.

Let me see. I mention some theory regarding checking taxi drivers at the station and you dumbly point out that hackney carriage drivers work all over sheffield? State the obvious why not. I was merely saying random testing down here on a regualar basis and other areas of sheffield would help stop illegal drivers etc. North East Derbyshire is a major headache for the council which we have all known that for years. :huh: If people in Sheffield are complaining about the standard of service then clearly there is a problem which isn't being tackled enough probably through lack of manpower thru paperwork. I mean how hard can it be to employ 10-20 regular 'on the beat' taxi Marshalls thru Sheffield? We have enough traffic wardens.:thumbsup:

To be honest Tab1 i find your replies to me pretty patronising. Again can you tell me what experience you have this matter because you find it all too easy to judge my input. If you've done 20 years cabbying i'll get my coat.;)

As for the etiquette of the forum i'll ask you to refrain from making assumptions about me from one post i made and i'll refrain in future from writing anything on this matter even light-hearted for fear of reprisals from the 1984 style atmosphere lurking on this forum. Looking at your previous posts you seem to like a good argument with people who don't see your way of thinking so i guess i got the daily backlash.

Its hardly a big ask is it old bean? :thumbsup:

I work down at the side of the railway station and we have no end of problems with the large number of black cabs that appear. They constantly block access to our yard, have a total disregard for double yellow lines and now when the station access is blocked have taken to driving over the footpath and through the cycle lane at the side of the co op funeral place. One was recently caught by the police for driving over the footpath through the cycle lane, it was very strange that for the 30 minutes the police were near the rank not one black cab came back to the ranks! It was only after the police car left that they started to drift back, I am sure there are quite a few legal drivers out there but it makes you wonder just how many?

as per my previous post and quoted redrobbo

who knows the truth of how many illegal drivers etc. and to be honest lets all agree on one point

been out need taxi home asain kid pulls up in cab "want a cab mate?"
a) 99.5% go "cheers mate its bloody freezing" and get in
b) 0.5% (obviously licensing staff and councillors on the board) dont

What a bunch of moaners :gag:

Freyasdad asked a simple question albeit in a slightly abnoxious way. RedRobbo answered his query on why you can have multiple drivers driving the same cab (at different times of the day). Thread should have been closed.

However then people have to start taxi driver 'bashing'. If it's not them let's have a go at the councillors or the taxi licensing department.

Why can't people stay positive and when they do have concerns raise them with the right people (ie put something in writing and send it to the taxi dept). However please think before you complaint or at least read what you are posting before you click 'submit reply' button on this thread.

Just to mention I am not linked to the taxi trade or the council. However I have never had a problem with black cab taxis in sheffield, but God knows how they put up with us drunks on a Friday night.

So finally all I would like to say is CHILL OUT and

Don't worry Be Happy :D

Regards
last warrior

To be honest Tab1 i find your replies to me pretty patronising. Again can you tell me what experience you have this matter because you find it all too easy to judge my input. If you've done 20 years cabbying i'll get my coat.;)

Its hardly a big ask is it old bean? :thumbsup:
The least of my concerns is how you feel about my pointing out something I felt you failed to see. If having read my previous posts you might have learned that I have bothered to find out information on what I have posted on here so far, never guess work. As regards the station it's futile only targetting 220 or so members of the station rank as only they are allowed to work there and leave the other 600 or so a free hand in rest of the city. Now I believe you didn't know that, unless you can prove me wrong. All I asked you was politely to research your own trade so that we won't need to educate you.:hihi: Na' get de cuot pal:)

If you think i am lowering myself to apologise for a comment that wasn't even serious then you are wrong. The amount of libellous remarks about taxi drivers on here beggars belief YET do you mods ever get involved????? Yet the word 'conservatory' and you guys are all frothing at the mouth spouting libellous nonsense. A name mentioned would be libellous. Its like saying coppers/traffic/blues and twos/teabreak???? OMG so libellous!!!!

I've stated my comments and if people can't see them for what they were, then i have no time for this media circus either. Jeremy Clarkson would lap this post up i tell ya. A Bientot :thumbsup:

I think your comments impugning Redrobbo's integrity, as both a councillor and as a member of the licensing board certainly DO warrant an apology from you. And soon.

Jocular or not, they are verging on the libellous, and impugn an extremely honest and hard-working man, who slogs his guts out for his constituents, and I for one am highly offended, on his behalf.

i never use blackcabs myself, but i did read a story about how ladies have to be carefull in sheffield when they are alone getting a cab, it was in the sheffield star a week ago or somthing! it was about a lady who nearly got attacked by the owner of the cab , the owner put the locks on , so the lady could not get out!
if i can find the link ill put it on,
"but my point is please ladys try catch a cab together when you go out at night"

most, if not all TX/ metrocab type black cabs have an automatic locking system, which you can see/ hear (you hear a click, and see somered lights appear on the door, indicating the door is locked)

this is nothing to do with the driver "locking" someone in, it's automatic, and comes into operation when the footbrake is applied.

i think it's a twofold purpose, a) to stop "runners" and b) to prevent someone attempting to get out of the cab where it would be unsafe, eg in the middle of traffic.

The best thing is to live in an area where most of the taxi drivers in Sheffield live - so I never get asked for directions tee heee

I ordered a private hire cab recently & the driver could hardly speak or read English! How did he pass the driving test or the knowledge exam???

The Licensing Board has now addressed this issue, and all applicants for a taxi license now undergo an English (and maths) test. No licenses are issued unless an applicant passes the tests.

Free assistance can be provided to applicants to improve their English to the basic standard if required, and is also available to all existing licensed drivers. This Licensing Board policy decision was both welcomed by and agreed with the taxi trade associations.

... I have never seen spot checks routinely done in sheffield fullstop and have being cabbying around 4 years.


Perhaps you haven't seen any "spot checks routinely done in Sheffield" for the very reason I gave in my earlier post....

...Licensing checks need an element of surprise - and if spot checks were solely carried out at the railway station, word would soon get out, and any rogue drivers would avoid the station completely. Rather than solving any problems "in about a year", as you claim, your suggestion would more than likely exacerbate any problems.

The Licensing Board has now addressed this issue, and all applicants for a taxi license now undergo an English (and maths) test. No licenses are issued unless an applicant passes the tests.

Free assistance can be provided to applicants to improve their English to the basic standard if required, and is also available to all existing licensed drivers. This Licensing Board policy decision was both welcomed by and agreed with the taxi trade associations.
This is definitely an improvement. :)

I got a letter through about the course (about a year ago), I have to try and find it. There were a couple of spelling mistakes on it, which my sarcastic mind had a field day with :hihi::hihi:

...If people in Sheffield are complaining about the standard of service then clearly there is a problem which isn't being tackled enough probably through lack of manpower thru paperwork. I mean how hard can it be to employ 10-20 regular 'on the beat' taxi Marshalls thru Sheffield? We have enough traffic wardens.:thumbsup:

All Licensing functions of the council, including the licensing of taxis and private hire, the licensing of pubs and clubs, also pet shops and myriad other licensing functions, are not paid for by the council taxpayer. In the main, licensing costs have to be paid for by the license holders themselves as they have to be (as far as possible) cost neutral to the council.

If you are seriously suggesting the council "employ 10-20 regular 'on the beat' taxi Marshalls thru Sheffield" then the cost of your taxi license will rise considerably in order to pay for the wages and associated on-costs of your suggested Marshalls.

These increased licensing costs would naturally deflate your income - unless you worked extra hours to make up for the lost income.

I'm more than happy to put your suggestion on the agenda at a future Licensing Board policy meeting for consideration, but having explained what effect it would have on your personal income, I just wonder if you are still in favour of your idea?

This is definitely an improvement. :)

I got a letter through about the course (about a year ago), I have to try and find it. There were a couple of spelling mistakes on it, which my sarcastic mind had a field day with :hihi::hihi:

Spelling mistakes on a letter regarding improving English!

Hmm, I couldn't possibly comment *_ash_* :hihi:

then the cost of your taxi license will rise considerably in order to pay for the wages and associated on-costs of your suggested Marshalls.


I'm more than happy to put your suggestion on the agenda at a future Licensing Board policy meeting for consideration,
I'd rather you didn't :hihi:

Hello All,
Just had a taxi (PHV), gets in car tells him where i want to go, the answer back was wheres that,i explained to him which way to go and he didn,t have a clue where he was,not only that,he tried ripping me off for the fare,in the end he says give me what you usually pay,so come on you licensing people.Have you ever heard of moonlighting?

Spelling mistakes on a letter regarding improving English!

Hmm, I couldn't possibly comment *_ash_* :hihi:
I'd love to scan it and post it. But my license is due soon, so best not....:hihi::hihi:

Hello All,
Just had a taxi (PHV), gets in car tells him where i want to go, the answer back was wheres that,i explained to him which way to go and he didn,t have a clue where he was,not only that,he tried ripping me off for the fare,in the end he says give me what you usually pay,so come on you licensing people.Have you ever heard of moonlighting?

Ahhhhhh, the days when Cybil Shepherd was worth one. :love::love:

Ahhhhhh, the days when Cybil Shepherd was worth one. :love::love:

As opposed what I'm presented with as I get out of taxis now, which is "Ze bill".

<fx: runs like the wind>

As opposed what I'm presented with as I get out of taxis now, which is "Ze bill".


:hihi:
Aye and not by a beautiful woman, but by a bearded man. Or a bearded woman. (omg I hope my female colleagues don't read this site, or I'm in for it:hihi:)

:hihi:
Aye and not by a beautiful woman, but by a bearded man. Or a bearded woman. (omg I hope my female colleagues don't read this site, or I'm in for it:hihi:)

Now if I presented myself with Ze Bill, as well as the cabbie, I'd be worried ........

Anyway, didn't Ze Bill play for Brazil?

<fx: returns to lurking>

I think your comments impugning Redrobbo's integrity, as both a councillor and as a member of the licensing board certainly DO warrant an apology from you. And soon.

Jocular or not, they are verging on the libellous, and impugn an extremely honest and hard-working man, who slogs his guts out for his constituents, and I for one am highly offended, on his behalf.

Plain Talker i think you are blowing this out of proportion. I NEVER made any accusations about any members of the licensing board. Please quote anything i have said and explain why its so libellous? For someone who frequents this forum so much you fail to understand the word C Y N I C A L. If i unintentionally offended redrobbo then he has my apologies. As for yourself being offended i don't care :o;)

Now can we get back to the discussion instead of this rubbish.:huh:

I think your comments impugning Redrobbo's integrity, as both a councillor and as a member of the licensing board certainly DO warrant an apology from you. And soon.

Jocular or not, they are verging on the libellous, and impugn an extremely honest and hard-working man, who slogs his guts out for his constituents, and I for one am highly offended, on his behalf.Hmmmm!..................but lots of us have to live in the real world! My experience of Sheffield black cabs, is that most stink! and however they supposedly pass the MOT is beyond me!

Hello All,
Just had a taxi (PHV), gets in car tells him where i want to go, the answer back was wheres that,i explained to him which way to go and he didn,t have a clue where he was,not only that,he tried ripping me off for the fare,in the end he says give me what you usually pay,so come on you licensing people.Have you ever heard of moonlighting?

Suggested remedy as the employees dealing with licencing phvs are unlikely to be psychic :)

Get a pen and paper, write down the taxi company, the plate number, the driver's badge number, ring the Town Hall with your complaint and give them the information. I'm sure they'll be delighted to deal with on your behalf. Job sorted!

I am a councillor and a member of the Licensing Board.

A taxi is not licensed to a particular driver. Some taxis are family owned or rented out, and thus you can expect to see different drivers driving the same vehicle. All drivers should be licensed - always check the details of the driver when you get in a cab.

I thought Drivers had to have there photo badge showing at all time :huh: if so then a visit to Sheffield Midland Station taxi rank is on the cards :suspect:

Hmmmm!..................but lots of us have to live in the real world! My experience of Sheffield black cabs, is that most stink! and however they supposedly pass the MOT is beyond me!

I wasn't referring to black cabs in the comment of mine that you have quoted. I was referrring to popeye's comment's, (jocular or not) insinuating that Redrobbo was corrupt, and creaming monies off for his own pecuniary advantage.

Woh!
I stay off the forum for a day or so and this thread gets out of hand.
I have read all the posts and I think Ousetunes and Rubydazzler have made the best points. If posters have individual complaints then contact the licensing department at the town hall. Rogue cabbies in whatever form need to be sorted. However some of the comments now seem to be getting out of hand. Little substance and quite nasty.

Plain Talker i think you are blowing this out of proportion. I NEVER made any accusations about any members of the licensing board. Please quote anything i have said and explain why its so libellous? For someone who frequents this forum so much you fail to understand the word C Y N I C A L. If i unintentionally offended redrobbo then he has my apologies. As for yourself being offended i don't care :o;)

Now can we get back to the discussion instead of this rubbish.:huh:

I'm glad you have offered apologies to Redrobbo.

I don't think I was bowing anything out of proportion, popeye, Redrobbo is a man of integrity, and your (supposedly) jocular comments, that insinuated that he was creaming monies off to pay for his conservatory were offensive, unfounded, and unnecessary.As such I will challenge comments like that. If you are going to accuse an elected official of corruption, you need to back the accusation up.

I'm glad you have offered apologies to Redrobbo.

I shall also humbly apologise to you Plain Talker for not understanding my cynicism. In future i will make it clear exactly what i am writing and in what style so as not to offend you or anyone else. (Takes flatcap off and bows) :o:D

The integrity of us all is at stake. make no mistake people :|

For someone who frequents this forum so much you fail to understand the word C Y N I C A L.
I'm convinced you're mixing up the words cynical and sarcastic - the reason people got offended is because you were indeed being cynical.


–adjective

like or characteristic of a cynic; distrusting or disparaging the motives of others.
showing contempt for accepted standards of honesty or morality by one's actions, esp. by actions that exploit the scruples of others.
bitterly or sneeringly distrustful, contemptuous, or pessimistic.

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/cynical

It sounds good, but how is this assessed?
Sorry chap, I've only just spotted you asked me this. I think redrobbo answered anyway and it was indeed his post I had in mind originally. :)

I'm convinced you're mixing up the words cynical and sarcastic - the reason people got offended is because you were indeed being cynical.


http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/cynical

:thumbsup::lol:

All the more reasons for all taxi drivers to take English language tests then. Seems it may catch out more than we might expect:hihi:

All the more reasons for all taxi drivers to take English language tests then. Seems it may catch out more than we might expect:hihi:
Indeed! I found the irony quite amusing, too. ;)