Posted on the 18th August 2026 in PHTM News

NORTH AYRSHIRE CAB DRIVER SUSPENDED FOR THREE WEEKS AFTER REPEAT SMOKING OFFENCE

A North Ayrshire taxi driver has been suspended for three weeks after being caught smoking in his cab for the second time, despite having previously received a written warning.

Alister Gill, who has held his licence since 2007, was spotted driving slowly with the driver's window partially down while holding a cigarette in his right hand before picking up a hire at an Aldi store.

Licensing standards officer Drew Robertson traced Mr Gill and informed him that he would be reported to the council's licensing committee.

Under North Ayrshire Council policy, smoking cigarettes or vapes is strictly prohibited in licensed vehicles for both drivers and passengers.

During the hearing, committee members highlighted that the previous warning letter had failed to deter him, with Councillor Christina Larsen noting that he should have been fully aware of the regulations given his long experience in the trade.

Committee chair Eleanor Collier also expressed concern that Mr Gill had immediately picked up a live hire after smoking.

Defending his actions, Mr Gill insisted he had cut down on his smoking and vowed not to smoke in his cab again, describing the disciplinary process as “worse than going to the dentist”.

Ultimately, Councillor Larsen’s proposal to suspend the licence for three weeks was unanimously approved by the committee, with the penalty taking effect in 28 days.


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