Taxi scheme outrage

Vulnerable users will be hundreds out of pocket

A DISABLED pensioner said today she is “outraged” she and hundreds of other vulnerable people will be badly affected by the removal of the city’s Taxicard scheme.

Myrtle Chisholm, 72, said she will be hundreds of pounds worse off as a result of the scheme being withdrawn by Dundee City Council.

Mrs Chisholm, from Charleston, also said the removal of the scheme will mean she and many others could end up virtual prisoners in their own homes because it would be too expensive to travel if they have to rely on taxis.

The service, which allows discounted 24-hour access to taxis, will stop from the end of this month.

The council plans to invest £50,000 of the savings made i nto a new members-only minibus scheme, which will transport people to shops, GP services and other locations.

However, Mrs Chisholm, who suffers from a range of medical conditions including heart disease, Parkinson’s and a muscle condition that makes walking very difficult, said the minibus is no use to her.

The pensioner, who requires walking aids to get around added: “There’s no way I can get on the minibus with my conditions. I have also tried using the service bus but that doesn’t really work for me either.

“For me the discounted Taxicard scheme is a lifeline.

“I use taxis to go to the doctor and to do my weekly shopping. You get two discounted journeys a week which adds up to £208 a year.”

Lochee councillor Michael Marra said: “Local people are being left in the lurch by the decision to stop the Taxicard.

“I have been contacted by a number of people in the Lochee ward who are unable to use the very limited replacement service due to mobility issues.

“The Taxicard was a help to those on fixed incomes.”

The council’s depute convener of city development Mark Flynn said: “Ending the Taxicard scheme will only remove the £2 discount and accessible taxis will still be available.

“The new Blether Bus introduces two council minibuses that will deliver a hail and ride service which means as well as being able get on and off at any of the bus stops along the route, the driver will pick up and drop off from streets where there are no bus stops.”

See “New bus focus” on p4.

Myrtle Chisholm fears she will be like a prisoner in her home.

Mrs Chisholm has a stairlift at home.