A cap on the number of taxi licences issued was one of the main points in the submission made to the Government yesterday by the taxi industry.
The joint submission, on behalf of the National Taxi Drivers Union and the Irish Taxi Drivers Federation, but not SIPTU, accepted there should be an "immediate increase" in the number of licences issued but stipulated a number of conditions.
It made suggestions covering what "a new statutory instrument could include".
It said the increase in numbers could be brought about by establishing a regulatory body which would consult with local strategic policy committees. These committees would "cater for local knowledge and social inclusion requirements".
The document proposed that a survey be conducted to "match supply and demand on the basis of public need". Such surveys, it said, could be carried out on a regular basis to test the market and supply new licences as demand required. "This ensures that business interests, public interests and taxi interests are all heard and also avoids conflict."
To address the immediate shortages in Dublin, it said, an agreed number of wheelchair accessible licences should be issued through a lottery. Certain criteria would apply, including "stringent character vetting, proof of tax registration and social welfare clearance".
The licence applicant would also need a current PSV (Public Service Vehicle) licence. It said a six-month derogation should be introduced to allow for the vehicles to be adapted.
Regulating the industry would ensure the guarantee of public safety would continue, with a high standard of taxi operator and a high standard of vehicle, it said. A charter could be prepared which would result in an even higher standard of service. The displaying of language cards to cater for foreign passengers was also proposed.
It argued that at present taxi drivers provided a 24-hour service, seven days a week, which was achieved by limiting the number of licences, having regard to the number of people prepared to work in the industry. This helped to maintain profitability.
"Two thousand licences with 4,000 drivers results in each licence working double shift. Four thousand licences with 4,000 drivers could see all licences working day shift only. Availability of service is reduced in this example to a very good day service and a very bad night service. This will result in licence holders working to suit themselves."
The proposal claimed regulation would reduce traffic congestion and pollution. It said that if agreement was reached, they would assist Mr Molloy by encouraging drivers to return to work.
The taxi-drivers said there was an accepted need for liberalisation of the industry, but their industry needed to be considered as part of an overall transport policy, which would have the effect of providing a transport service "in individual areas to cater for the needs of that area".