Taxi drivers to hold George Square protest over Christmas struggle

Some drivers claim they have waited hours for work since coronavirus measures were re-introduced.

Author: Callum McQuadePublished 29th Dec 2021

Taxi drivers are staging a sit-in protest in Glasgow as they claim they have struggled to enjoy the festive period because the work has dried up.

They are staging a sit-in protest on George Square and then aiming to fill all lanes on both sides of the square.

It's hoped this will block off access from Nelson Mandela Place, Queen Street, Montrose Street, North Hanover Street and West Nile Street.

John Paul Duffy is one of those taking part and told Clyde 1: "We have seen a massive downturn in trade since people were told to cancel their Christmas parties and stay at home as much as possible.

"This is supposed to be our busiest period to see us through January because that is always tough, but the work just isn't there at the minute."

John Paul was hoping to earn more money from his taxi fares this Christmas after a struggle in 2020.

John Paul added: "The Christmas period has been a hard slog as I have had to work longer hours to try to make up the money I have lost over the last couple of weeks.

"There are only so many hours in the day."

Glasgow taxi drivers held another protest around the city earlier this year over a lack of financial help during the pandemic.

Chairman of the App Drivers and Couriers Union, Eddie Grice, claims the last few days have been miserable for him.

"I have not been able to take much time off to spend with my family and the slow down is really starting to bite.

"On Christmas Day I gave up and went home after nearly two hours without a single job.

"Last night was similar as I went home because I was sitting idle for 90 minutes."

A Scottish Government spokesperson said: "We are all too aware of the impact that COVID-19 has had – and continues to have – on business and the Scottish economy.

“That is why the actions we have taken so far, including the latest £375 million package of financial support recently announced by the First Minister.

"This is firmly focused on supporting businesses, protecting jobs and mitigating the continuing impact of Covid on our wider economy.

“We have met with representatives and are actively engaging with those in the sector.”

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