Derry taxi drivers struggle to get PSV medical sign off

That’s according to Sinn Féin’s local health spokesperson Sandra Duffy, who said she has been contacted by a number of local drivers who have found it difficult getting their PSVs signed-off.

She said the city’s fleet of taxis provided a vital service, particularly during the lockdown period, and she asked local GP practices to accommodate them where possible.

“Taxi drivers provide an essential service to the community and they are playing a key role keeping our city moving during this crisis. So, it’s important that we have as many of them as possible out on the road.

“I was contacted by a number of local taxi drivers with concerns that some drivers were finding it extremely difficult to acquire the medical certificate for their PSV being signed off on by their GP due to practices being in semi lockdown for many weeks and appointments cancelled,” she said.

Taxi drivers must submit a medical report from a GP if they are first time applicants, or when renewing a PSV licence, when they are over 45 years of age, or have a medical condition.

“I would encourage local surgeries to put in place measures to ensure that drivers can get the medicals needed and likewise any other frontline workers who are in need of documentation for the purposes of carrying out their jobs,” said Colr. Duffy.