Niall Collins (Limerick County, Fianna Fail)
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189. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on the use of a service (details supplied) here; if an impact assessment or analysis has been carried out by his Department or an agency under the remit of his Department on the merits or otherwise of it being permitted here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52600/18]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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I understand the Deputy is referring to a company which provides limousine services in Ireland and which in other countries provides a ridesharing service.  As you know, the NTA as Regulator of the small public service vehicle sector here has regulatory oversight of the limousine sector also, including the licensing of vehicles and drivers.  The current regulatory regime is in place to protect the consumer and to help ensure personal safety.  My view is that the regulation of ride-sharing services should also be determined in the context of these important objectives.  While my Department keeps abreast of emerging technologies and is open to consider innovative initiatives, a full impact assessment as regards ridesharing has not been completed as yet. 

Given their role as Regulator, I have also referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you as regards any analysis or impact assessments they have undertaken. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.