GMB UNION PERSPECTIVE
GMB SHOWS COMMITMENT TO DRIVERS AT LAUNCH OF ROCHDALE BANGLADESHI PH/TAXI ASSOCIATION
Article by GMB Union
info@gmb.org.uk www.gmb.org.uk
The event in Rochdale brought together private hire and taxi drivers, MPs, Rochdale Borough Council leadership team members, Trade Union representatives, Greater Manchester Police and community leaders to push for better conditions in the sector.
Speaking on behalf of the GMB Trade Union, Neil Smith emphasised the essential role that private hire drivers play in keeping our cities moving, despite facing rising costs, unfair competition from ride- hailing apps, and a lack of proper regulation.
Mr Smith stressed the need for fair pay, improved working conditions, and stronger recognition for drivers who work long hours to support their families and communities, both in the Northwest and throughout the UK.
The formation of the Rochdale British Bangladeshi Private Hire and Taxi Association (RBBPHTA) marks a crucial step in giving Rochdale’s private hire and taxi drivers a collective voice to advocate for their rights and influence policies affecting their livelihoods.
The GMB Union made it clear that our private hire members will no longer accept empty promises from policymakers and that real action is needed to ensure meaningful change.
Boshir Ahmed, Chairman of RBBPHTA, called for urgent action to protect private hire drivers from an oversaturated market.
He said: “Private hire drivers deserve protection like any other industry. Our income is being severely impacted, making it harder to earn a fair living.
“We need the Mayor of Manchester and the ten councils to CAP private hire vehicle licences. The current system benefits operators while leaving drivers struggling under unfair regulations.
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“This must change. We need a fair system that safeguards our livelihoods.
“GMB Union has many members in the borough, and we will be working closely with GMB to resolve issues in Rochdale.”
Ahmed’s com- ments highlight growing concerns among drivers facing declining earnings. Many now see a licence CAP as essential for a fairer private hire sector in Greater Manchester.
The Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Shakil Ahmed, extended his congratulations to the newly formed association, emphasising the vital that role private hire and taxi drivers play in public transportation and pledging his continued support for drivers.
The GMB pledged to work closely with its members, the RBBPHTA and other key stakeholders, to fight for fairer regulations, stronger protections and better industry standards across the UK.
The message was clear in Rochdale that unity is strength, and the campaign for justice in the private hire sector will continue until lasting improvements are secured.
MARCH 2025 PHTM
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