New York Cab Drivers Threaten Strike Over Tracking Systems
Pastor Dale Morgan
New York Cab Drivers Threaten Strike Over Tracking Systems*
According to taxi drivers' groups, the devices cost more than 5,000
dollars to install and will inform the Taxi and Limousine Commission
where they are, how many trips they have taken and how much they took in
fares.
by Staff Writers
New York (AFP) Jul 25, 2007
A trade body representing more than 8,000 New York taxi drivers is
threatening to call a strike over the city's plans to introduce
satellite positioning systems in every yellow cab. Bhairavi Desai,
executive director of the New York Taxi Workers Alliance, told AFP
Wednesday that drivers considered the proposals put forward by the
city's Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) infringed on their rights.
"Taxi drivers sometimes use the cars in their private time. Why should
they tell the TLC where they are going on a Sunday with their family?
This is an invasion of privacy," she said.
"We are ready to go on strike at no notice in September if the TLC
doesn't cancel its plans to install a GPS in each vehicle," she added.
The alliance represents some 8,400 of New York's 26,000 taxi drivers.
Under current proposals, the city's distinctive yellow cabs will from
October 1 have to be equipped with the new GPS system, which also
includes a monitor for passengers to follow their route and check news
and weather.
The system also allows bank card payments.
According to taxi drivers' groups, the devices cost more than 5,000
dollars to install and will inform the Taxi and Limousine Commission
where they are, how many trips they have taken and how much they took in
fares.
Source: Agence France-Presse