'Disturbing trend': Taxi drivers in Cork see rise in anti-immigrant abuse

A taxi driver in Cork has called for better respect for those working in the industry, saying they have witnessed a rise in anti-immigrant sentiment.

Naeem Iqbal said that “some immigrant taxi drivers, especially those with darker skin, are facing verbal abuse and even physical attacks,” highlighting the need for “safety, respect, and fair treatment for all drivers, regardless of where they come from”.

One taxi driver was hospitalised following an assault in his car on the Grand Parade last August, with taxi driver Bobby Lynch telling The Echo at the time: “There’s fellas scared to go to work.”

Mr Iqbal told The Echo that recently “a disturbing trend has emerged on the streets of Cork and beyond”.

He said there has been an increase in racist abuse and physical attacks directed at immigrant taxi drivers.

“These drivers, many of whom have made Ireland their home and contribute daily to our economy and communities, are now bearing the brunt of rising anti-immigrant sentiment,” he said.

Mr Iqbal said immigrants working in various sectors are facing similar hostility.

“Some people say we are coming to their country and taking their jobs. If the people are drinking it is a different issue, but most of the people who say this are not that drunk,” he said.

Mr Iqbal explained that fares can often be a source of conflict.

“It’s important for the public to understand that fares are not set by the drivers, but by the NTA (National Transport Authority). Drivers have no control over the prices, they simply follow regulations.

“For immigrant taxi drivers, the road to earning a living has become increasingly difficult. On top of verbal and physical abuse, many face massive financial hurdles, with high insurance premiums for new entrants into the profession.”

He said these financial difficulties are among numerous problems within the industry that both immigrant and Irish-born taxi drivers are facing.

Mr Iqbal said using local taxi services and other community-based providers rather than apps “keeps money circulating within the city, supports hard working families, and ensures reliable service rooted in local knowledge and commitment”.

He added that councils could also work with taxi drivers to recognise their contribution to tourism, as taxi drivers are often the first point of contact for visitors.

“We must ask ourselves: What kind of Ireland do we want to live in? One that welcomes, supports, and values all those who work hard and contribute, or one that turns a blind eye to discrimination and inequality?

“Cork’s taxi drivers deserve respect, protection, and fair treatment. It’s time we took meaningful steps to ensure they receive that.”