Proper plan needed to sort rural taxi shortage – Murphy

Action must be taken to ensure the taxi industry can grow, particularly in rural areas, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Michael Murphy, Chairperson of the Oireachtas Committee on Transport, said a National Taxi Strategy should be developed to address key issues in the sector.

“During Transport Committee hearings, we have heard extensive evidence on taxi availability, accessibility, rural coverage, passenger experience and driver income sustainability.

“When people cannot get a taxi, it affects their access to work, healthcare, education, tourism and socialising. That problem is particularly felt at night, in rural Ireland, and by people with disabilities.

“We need to support more drivers to enter and remain in the sector, maintain high safety standards, and ensure passengers can trust what they are being charged.”

Deputy Murphy said a National Taxi Strategy should focus on improved availability at peak times and in rural Ireland, stronger accessibility in practice, and a fair and transparent framework for drivers and passengers.

“Any strategy must look at supply, licensing, pricing, and long-term sustainability of the sector.

“A national strategy that ensures more availability and reliability will benefit drivers and passengers alike. We need to hear directly from stakeholders about how more drivers can be encouraged into the sector.

“Reliability, safety, accessibility and transparency must be at the heart of any action taken,” Deputy Murphy said, adding that he will continue its work with the NTA, the Minister for Transport and key stakeholders, to get a National Taxi Strategy in place.