Cablog

Thanks

Today is my fifth anniversary of blogging and time for an overdue break until 2009, sometime. In short, I'm pretty buggered and need a full creative recharge.

So a Happy Festive Season to all my readers and many thanks for your support over the years. You've made blogging worthwhile and a big motivation to keep going for so long. Much appreciated,

Adrian

UPDATE: Numero uno!

Feedback(2)

Last month in a post titled, Feedback I promised to list needed improvements to the taxi industry, from a driver’s perspective. However I'm not feeling particularly inspired at the moment so I apologise for the brevity of the following list.

Here are my predominant concerns which must be addressed...

• Without identifying a driver’s ‘blind’ spots, vehicle security is antiquated, almost criminal by neglect. The Government has been regularly notified of these shortcomings yet, seemingly, there is neither the will nor interest to enact critical safety upgrades. One suspects they believe there are simply not enough driver assaults and murders to warrant proactive action.


 

• Regarding security, I look forward to the day when NSW taxis have constant video surveillance, as is the case in Queensland. Overnight, the number of ‘he said-she said’ disputes, let alone inappropriate or illegal behaviour from drivers and passengers alike would reduce significantly.


 

• Compulsory testing for English language proficiency is an absolute joke. Too many drivers are ‘graduating’ from taxi school without basic English, much less the ability to comprehend instructions or explain themselves to passengers. Thus it’s no surprise that communication misunderstandings are the root cause of most disputes which, when combined with alcohol, can quickly turn violent.


 

• Last but not least, there is no assistance or little incentive for experienced drivers to obtain and eventually own their own taxi, thereby becoming a true small business operator. If so, younger drivers could consider the industry a viable option plus more drivers would adopt a more professional attitude.

Otherwise, feel free to make your own suggestions in Comments...