October 11, 2006
Service Dog Taxis
- Victorian Taxi Association spokesman Neil Sach said the association had appealed to the mufti of Melbourne to give religious approval for Muslim cabbies to carry guide dogs.
One Muslim driver, Imran, said yesterday the guide dog issue was difficult for him.
``I don't refuse to take people, but it's hard for me because my religion tells me I should not go near dogs,'' he said.
There are about 2000 Muslims among drivers of Melbourne's 10,000 taxis. Many are from countries with strict Islamic teachings about ``unclean'' dogs and the evils of alcohol.
Drivers who refused to carry blind people with their dogs attended remedial classes at Guide Dogs Victoria, Mr Sach said.
"They are taught why blind people need dogs," Mr Sach said.
It's only a matter of time before Muslim cabbies in this country run up against the Americans With Disabilities Act.
Related: Booze in taxis.
As if I do not have enough things to disagree with Muslims about. My friend tells me he has to wash his hands five times after touching a dog. He stayed with me for two weeks and I sent him home with very chapped hands...
Posted by: jk at October 11, 2006 1:18 PM | What do you think? [1]