19. (1) It is a function of the Authority to develop, operate and maintain a regulatory framework for the licensing and regulation of the standards to be applied to—

(a) small public service vehicles and their drivers, and

(b) the provision of services involving small public service vehicles.

(2) In exercising its functions under subsection (1) the Authority shall seek to achieve the following objectives:

(a) to promote the provision and maintenance of quality services by small public service vehicles and their drivers;

(b) to pursue the continued development of a qualitative and customer orientated licensing system, regulatory code and standards for small public service vehicles, small public service vehicle licence holders and small public service vehicle drivers;

(c) to oversee the development of a professional, safe, efficient and customer- friendly service by small public service vehicles and their drivers;

(d) to encourage and promote competition in relation to services (including fares) offered by small public service vehicles;

(e) in seeking to achieve the provision of quality services by small public service vehicles and their drivers, to have due regard to the protection of service users and providers alike;

(f) to promote measures to facilitate increased integration of taxi services in the public transport system;

(g) to promote the development of high quality cost effective services by small public service vehicles and their drivers which meet a wide range of customer needs including those of passengers with mobility or sensory impairments;

F21[(h) to promote access to, the availability and affordability of, and priority in booking or hiring of, small public service vehicles by persons with disabilities;]

(i) to encourage investment to support and enhance the services offered by small public service vehicles and to promote innovation in this regard.

(3) Subject to any policy direction under section 26 of the Act of 2008, the Authority shall be independent in the exercise of its functions under this Act.

(4) The exercise of the functions of the Authority under this Act other than a power to make regulations may be carried out by or through a member, or member of the staff, of the Authority authorised by the Authority on that behalf or under a service agreement.