Michael Collins (Cork South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank our guests. Taxi drivers are suffering. Many taxis operators in the constituency of Cork South-West and throughout the country have been in contact with me prior to this ten-minute packaging and other things that they feel are not steering their way. Taxi drivers are suffering extreme stress and anxiety during the Covid-19 pandemic as they have seen their incomes wiped out. Nonetheless, they have to keep their cars taxed, insured and licensed. They are fearful of cancelling their insurance as they may find it difficult or impossible to get insurance again or a renewal could see their premiums inflate.

Many drivers are over 66 years of age, working full-time and paying income tax but, because of age discrimination, they were unable to avail of the Covid-19 payment. Significant numbers of drivers have been in the business for 40 years and having paid exorbitant fees for their taxi plates under the old system are still bearing this very significant financial burden.

Drivers have recurring costs. For example, a taxi licence costs €250 for five years plus €125 a year for the vehicle licensing. Should existing licences be given free to anyone over 66 in some compensation to these people who have paid into the system are being discriminated against at present? With their vehicles parked up, the licence fee is also very unfair.

Regarding the condition of a taxi, it has to be taken off the road in its tenth year. Drivers have to upgrade their cars in order to keep their licences active. In the current difficult business climate, cars are predominantly parked up. In these exceptional times, could the taxi age be increased from ten to 15 years to ease the financial burden?

Does the NTA have surplus moneys it collected from taxi drivers over the years? If so, could these funds be made available to support drivers making car upgrades? These grants are already available for wheelchair-accessible taxis. Taxi drivers need support now.

Is there anything in the stimulus package for taxi operators aged over 66 or for private bus operators?