“We have decided to take the bull by the horns. We cannot have postponements on our livelihoods,” Santaco president Phillip Taaibosch told reporters.
“We have decided that all provincial structures will from Monday, load 100% capacity — whether the minister approves, or not. All long-distance taxis must resume operation. No permits will be wanted from passengers in long-distance taxis,” he added.
He said the decision came after transport minister Fikile Mbalula four times failed to meet and discuss a way forward with the taxi industry.
The industry leader said it would be compulsory for commuters to wear masks, taxis would be sanitised, and long-distance operators’ marshals would ensure all commuters are screened.
“We have taken this decision against the frustration and lack of direction. We are aware our vehicles will be impounded. Tomorrow, we will not accept any form of impoundment; if any taxi is impounded, all taxis will come to a halt until they are released,” he said.
The industry rejected the conditions government tabled for it to access R1.135bn in relief funds.
Mbalula announced on Friday that the government had signed off on the R1.135bn for the industry, which would amount to about R5,000 per vehicle.
Taaibosch said they demanded that the relief be reviewed.
[pullquote]“We have taken this decision against the frustration and lack of direction. We are aware our vehicles will be impounded. Tomorrow, we will not accept any form of impoundment; if any taxi is impounded, all taxis will come to a halt until they are released,” he said.[/pullquote]
“After our meeting it was our expectation that he will give us a chance to engage with constituencies. The minister knew the matter was sensitive and we did not have an agreement with him.
“He wanted to canvass his understating and portray us as unreasonable. The minister continues to make wrong statements about us. We want to appeal to him to refrain from misleading the public about us.
“The announcement does not reflect the spirit of negotiation with him, nothing was finalised.
“The taxi industry does not accept the relief fund by government; the offer is just a clear demonstration of what this government says of this industry,” Taaibosch added.
The minister had not responded by the time of publication but the article will be updated once he reacts to Santaco’s announcement.
BY KGAUGELO MASWENENG
