Taxi fare increases come into effect

Ellen O'Donoghue

An increase in taxi fares is set to come into effect today.

The National Transport Authority launched the nine per cent rise in taxi fares to reflect the rising costs associated with running a taxi.

Between 2022 and 2024, the cost of operating a taxi rose by roughly nine to 11 per cent.

A "special rate" currently applies to taxi fares for journeys taken between 8pm on Christmas Eve and 8am on St Stephens Day, and between 8pm on New Year's Eve and 8am on New Year's Day.

The NTA said the special rate will be extended to include the weekend peak, 12 midnight to 4.00am, on Friday night into Saturday morning and Saturday night into Sunday morning, year-round, in an effort to incentivise more drivers to service the nighttime economy.

The fee for pre-booking a taxi will also increase from €2 to €3.

FREENOW Ireland's general manager, Danny O'Gorman said that the fare increase is nessesary to ensure existing drivers can continue to operate their taxis and for the sector to remain attractive to new drivers.

"The new maximum taxi fare, set by the National Transport Authority, is weighted towards late-night weekend hours to better supply taxis at times of peak demand while supporting the night-time economy," he said.

"However, we need more than fare increases to support taxi drivers’ livelihoods. Increased safety concerns mean drivers are becoming less willing to work certain hours.

“To support passengers, we've introduced FREENOW PLUS, a subscription service offering discounts on taxi rides, and the Airport Prebook Promise, guaranteeing compensation for delays or cancellations," Mr O'Gorman added.