The proposal to require 20% of taxis to be accessible for those with disabilities is a very appropriate reaction to the absence of licensed, fully accessible taxis. The notion that services to the handicapped individuals can be limited and regarded complacently is one that is foolish and has long since been abolished, and we must reinforce the equality that the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms endows upon us. To maintain equality, these services should not be limited, and furthermore, should not require additional fees.
The mandatory sanction to upgrade all licensed taxis in Hamilton, however, may not be the optimal solution. This requirement would cast many cabbies into financial dilemmas, limiting the number of operable taxis, and diminishing taxi services in general. These drivers are already facing elevating gas prices, deleterious to their finances. Should city council mandate a law proclaiming all taxis become accessible, they should consider investing themselves, so as to lighten the load on the cabbie's wallet, and consequently hasten the proposed changes.
With the vast quantity of cabbies in Hamilton, modifications to some vehicles could benefit some drivers. With accessibility comes a broader range of potential clients, and leaves these drivers with more opportunities to generate income. Additionally, the number of taxis required to possess accessibility features should cater to the demand, so as to accommodate those with special needs while limiting the excess spending required for drivers to accrue such features.
City council must come to a decision that favours both taxi drivers and those with disabilities, and should look further into the financial effects of their proposition. We need to find a middle ground.
The Hamilton Spectator: City looksinto taxi accessability
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