Drivers may face extra scrutiny

TAXI drivers in Oldham could face extra security checks as part of new plans to protect children and vulnerable adults.

All local authorities are set to discuss whether private hire and hackney carriage drivers should join teachers and carers in being registered with the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA).

The move has been made because some drivers have regular contact with children and vulnerable adults.

Currently, drivers undertake a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check which lasts three years and identifies any convictions.

The new ISA checks would identify whether a person posed a risk to children or vulnerable adults even if they had no convictions through up-to-date information sharing from sources such as the police.

Members of the Licensing Regulatory Committee yesterday considered whether they felt drivers in Oldham should be ISA registered.

The committee said consultation should take place with the taxi trade, and the ISA should issue greater clarity as to whether it felt drivers should be included.

A more detailed report will be presented at the next licensing committee.