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A coalition of business interest groups have reiterated their call for urgent action to be taken to increase the number of taxis available across the country.
The Taxis for Ireland Coalition said there is a chronic shortage of availability, particularly during peak times.
The group is meeting with TDs and Senators in Leinster House today, to press home the case for measures to be put in place to increase taxi supply.
“The current taxi shortage poses a direct threat to our late night economy – bars, late bars and nightclubs – with customers leaving venues early due to the difficulties they will face in getting taxis home,” Donall O’Keeffe, CEO of the Licensed Vintners Association.
“The safety of our patrons is of paramount importance, yet the taxi shortage is affecting this. We are calling for measures to rectify the shortfall and protect the late-night economy of our Capital city.”
Nearly half of requested trips by customers can go unfulfilled at peak times between Friday midday and Sunday morning, a recent survey by Bolt found.
The research also found there is even a shortfall of 16% during the quieter period of the week from Monday afternoon to Thursday afternoon.
Another YouGov survey carried out for the coalition this month found 39% of people are worried about getting home safely because of the shortage of taxis.
Two thirds of respondents said action is required in relation to the issue.
“The scarcity of taxis is disrupting the dining experience for our customers, with many facing challenges just getting to and from rural and urban restaurants,” said Adrian Cummins, CEO of the Restaurant Association of Ireland.
“This shortfall urgently needs to be rectified to ensure the viability of our restaurants.”
The group is recommending a minimum market-based target be set for an increase in Small Public Service Vehicles and new policies to meet them.
It also wants a re-valuation of the current requirement for new SPSVs to be Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles.
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