New York taxi drivers rally to call for fare hike
( 2003-10-24 10:38) (Agencies)
Dozens of yellow cab drivers
held a rally in Manhattan on Thursday to call for a fare increase amid recent
strike threats by some taxi driver unions.
At a noon rally members of the New York State Federation of Taxi Drivers
called for a 33 percent fare increase, saying the demand is in line with the
recent subway and bus fare hike.
Taxi drivers said the cost of gas, insurance, and living in general is much
higher than it was the last time fares were increased in 1996.
"We move the economy of this city. We move all the tourists from one hotel to
another hotel. We move every patron from one restaurant to another. We move
people to and from work. We deserve to make a living," said Fernando Mateo,
President of the New York State Federation of Taxi Drivers. "Christmas is around
the corner. Our members have no money to put gifts under the Christmas tree, and
we want to make sure before December 25 we're granted our rate hike."
Part-time taxi driver Daniel Cuevas urged the authorities to " make something
happen" so that taxi drivers can support their family and work in peace.
The Taxi and Limousine Commission is currently reviewing several proposals
for an increase. A separate union, the New York Taxi Alliance, is threatening to
strike if they do not get a fare increase.
The alliance has asked for a 50-cent-per-mile hike, and it also intended to
raise the flat rate from JFK Airport, the city's major airport for international
flights, to Manhattan from 35 dollars to 45 dollars.
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