Muslim taxis refuse to carry guide dogs
Email Print Normal font Large font October 8, 2006 - 5:44AM
Muslim taxi drivers are refusing to transport guide dogs and passengers carrying alcohol.
At least 20 blind Melburnians have lodged discrimination complaints with the Victorian Taxi directorate, New Limited reports.
Complaints have also been lodged against drivers who refuse to allow passengers to carry sealed bottles of alcohol.
Victorian Taxi Association spokesman Neil Sach said the association had appealed to the mufti of Melbourne to allow Muslim cabbies to carry guide dogs.
Dogs are considered unclean by many Muslims, and the issue is difficult for some drivers.
"I don't refuse to take people, but it's hard for me because my religion tells me I should not go near dogs," driver Imran said.
Guide Dogs Victoria spokeswoman Holly Marquette said blind people regularly reported taxi drivers refusing to allow them on board with their dogs.
http://www.theage.com.au/news/National/Muslim-taxis-refuse-to-carry-guide-dogs/2006/10/08/1160245991954.html
