A CORK TAXI driver has written a book based on his experiences on the road in Cork city – but has managed to raise eyebrows thanks to his very frank opinions.
Ken Cashman, who is based in Cork city, told Cork Independent reporter Christine Allen that he has a policy of not allowing members of the Traveller community use his taxi – and he doesn’t apologise for this.
He makes the admission in a chapter in his book Taxi Diaries: The Legend That Is… Car 16, entitled ’Knackers’ .
Pavee Point, which promotes Travellers’ human rights, said that his opinion is sadly not an uncommon one.
A spokesperson for the organisation told TheJournal.ie:
We find it disappointing that Mr Cashman has taken a great idea for a book – the collected stories of a taxi driver – and produced something so ordinary.
The use of the word ‘Knacker’ as a chapter title betrays a regrettable attempt to shock and offend which won’t succeed.
Cashman said in his interview that he knows some people will be angry at the book – and he is offering a money back guarantee.
Pavee Point commented:
We wish him every success with his money back offer.
Cashman claims he does not allow Travellers travel in his taxi as he says Traveller customers of his in the past have refused to pay fares.
He also says that he was taunted by racist bullies – both while growing up in London and on his return to Ireland.
The book is available at Eason bookshops in Cork.
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