Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The number of taxis is having a detrimental impact on rural Ireland. In Tipperary, according to the most recent figures, there has been a drop to just 220 taxis despite a population growth of more than 4,000 people. This has an obvious negative impact on hospitality and retail services. Pubs and restaurants throughout Tipperary were already struggling with increased overheads and now they have a reduced number of clients as people are unable to get a guaranteed taxi service. Town pubs have lost rural customers and revenue due to a lack of reliable and affordable services. Many young people are left stranded after pubs and nightclubs close. This is damaging the social, cultural and economic aspects of local communities.

Securing transport is also a major issue for people who need to get to medical appointments or personal appointments or, in some cases, simply to get to their nearest town. I previously raised this growing issue with the Taoiseach. The Taoiseach mentioned that there would be a review. What is the position in respect of that review? Why can we not restore taxi services to viability?

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