To ask the Minister of the Environment what guidance is available to taxi companies on fitting taxi meters prior to the implementation of the Taxis Act in May 2016.

When the praying period in respect of the taximeter regulations elapsed on 2 February 2016, the Department communicated to all taxi drivers and operators to advise them of the new taximeter requirements and the relevant timescales.

The Department has also updated the NI Direct website to reflect the changes taking place in May 2016. The website hosts the Department's Approved Taximeter & Printer List, which will guide operators and drivers in terms of which devices are appropriate to install and use. There is also included on the website the new Maximum Fare structure so that operators are aware of the new restrictions around taxi fares.

Guidance will continue to be issued to the industry as the commencement date for the incoming regime approaches.