Judge Farlam to drive minibus taxi mediation

A MyCiTi bus goes up in flames during the minibus taxi strike. File photo: Bkeki Radebe / ANA

A MyCiTi bus goes up in flames during the minibus taxi strike. File photo: Bkeki Radebe / ANA

Published Oct 3, 2017

Share

Cape Town - Retired Supreme Court of Appeal Judge Ian Farlam has been appointed by the Western Cape government to mediate in the conflict between minibus taxi operators in the province that turned violent in September.

Transport and public works MEC Donald Grant said: “The two minibus taxi groupings, the current South African National Taxi Council executive and the so-called Minibus Taxi Industry ‘Task Team’, have both agreed to the appointment of Judge

Farlam, as well as to the terms of reference for the mediation process.”

He said Judge Farlam held an introductory meeting with a task team of role-players yesterday. He is expected to explore the root cause of strife over the election of new leadership in the taxi industry and help find a long-term solution.

Retired Judge Ian Farlam, appointed to mediate in the conflict between taxi operators. 
File photo: Reuters

During September buses were stoned and burning barricades set up on roads around Cape Town as taxi operators went on strike. They were also protesting against the city’s policies on impounding vehicles.

Grant said instability in the taxi industry caused havoc for commuters.

“It is still of concern to me that internal divisions are threatening the stability of the minibus-taxi industry and with it, the means of transport of many citizens in our province," he said. 

‘‘I initiated this mediation process to resolve the impasse between the disputing groups and to chart a way forward that would result in an inclusive and democratic election of new industry leadership.”

Cape Times 

Like us on Facebook

Follow us on Twitter

Related Topics: