Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

150. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if his attention has been drawn to an increase in reports by SPSV NTA issued licence holders of being prevented from transporting passengers travelling cross-Border both to and from destinations in Northern Ireland by authorities there; if such an escalation in enforcement by the authorities in Northern Ireland contravenes reciprocal arrangements in place across both jurisdictions by which taxi operators based either side of the Border may operate on such a cross-Border basis without impediment; if such a reciprocal regime does not exist, the efforts being made between the respective authorities to establish same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41512/20]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Deputy may wish to be aware that there is currently no legislation to support the cross-border operation of SPSVs. The relevant legislation governing taxi services in this State is the Taxi Regulation Act 2013, which requires the holding of an SPSV licence and an SPSV driver licence to carry persons for hire or reward. The 2013 Act and its requirements only apply to services provided in the State - it does not provide for cross-border services.  I understand that the legislative position in Northern Ireland is similar.  Thus, under current legislation, a taxi operator wishing to operate cross-border services, would have to apply for and obtain licences on each side of the border.

As Minister for Transport, a cross-border regime for SPSVs is something I would hope to pursue once the COVID-19 pandemic abates. This is something which would require legislation in both jurisdictions, and I look forward to discussing the issue with my Northern Ireland counterpart in the future.