Taxi shortage fears ahead of busy Christmas weekend

The Taxis for Ireland Coalition has called on people socialising during the festive period to ensure they take steps to get home safely amidst fears of a taxi shortage.

This call comes ahead of one of the busiest weekends of the year with significant increased demand for taxis and public transport expected.

The Coalition has also called on newly elected TDs to work towards an increase in taxi numbers across the country so that these calls will not have to be made for future periods of high demand.

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Representatives from Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, the Labour Party, and the Social Democrats all supported the Coalition’s call for increased taxi numbers in the General Election campaign.

The Coalition says it would remind parties and Independent TDs engaged in Government formation talks, that while all forms of public transport should be supported to foster a more vibrant night time economy and public transportation system overall, taxis should not be left out of this equation.

"The Coalition is not seeking deregulation of the industry, only an increase in taxi numbers in response to increased demand," a spokesman said.

As celebrations ramp up nationwide, the availability of taxis is expected to fall far short of demand.

This situation not only inconveniences travellers but also raises serious safety concerns as individuals may resort to unsafe travel alternatives or face extended wait times in potentially vulnerable situations.

The Coalition highlights that this is not merely an urban issue, as rural areas are particularly affected by the lack of sufficient taxi services, bearing in mind that there is often no public transport alternative.

Pat Crotty, CEO of the Vintners’ Federation of Ireland, says that no region, urban or rural, is immune to the effects of the taxi supply shortage. “With the festive season upon us, the shortage of taxis is a pressing concern that affects both urban and rural communities. This isn't just about convenience; it's about safety and ensuring that everyone can enjoy their celebrations responsibly.

"We want people to socialise safely responsibly, as well as a transport environment that facilitates this. We don’t want people resorting to unsafe practices – whether that be drink driving or unlicensed taxis – due to the lack of transportation.

"There are many small and large towns that do not have bus services and if they do, they do not run throughout the night. This demand on taxis will certainly be exhausted over the Christmas period.”

Aisling Dunne, Head of Public Policy for Bolt Ireland said: "During the Christmas period, a significant number of drivers turn off their apps and resort to road-side pickups only. While this is an understandable practice due to the huge demand placed on taxi services during this time of year, it can often leave users stranded on streets late at night possibly in unsafe, cold and dark areas not knowing when or how they will get home.

"It is for these reasons we are calling on the incoming government to take steps to help solve this taxi supply shortage.”