Perth —
Australia's Disability Discrimination commissioner has
lodged a formal complaint with Western Australia's
Department of Transport after two taxi drivers refused to
accept his fare.
Graeme Innes, who is visiting Perth
this weekend, says taxi drivers, on two separate
occasions, have refused to transport him and his guide
dog.
Commissioner Innes says when he
contacted them, the taxi companies concerned were very
apologetic and quickly despatched another cab.
He says while he is not often
refused service, it is always disappointing when such
incidents occur.
"One's always disappointed when
you're discriminated against because of your disability
because you hope that the community will treat you on the
same basis as everyone else," he said.
"Most of the community does but
unfortunately there are individuals who treat you
differently and that's always disappointing."
Taxi drivers face a $300 fine if
they refuse to transport a guide dog.
