Toll waivers at off-peak times for shared cars and 20% cheaper bus fares are just some of the proposals published today by Mobility Partnership Ireland, which plans to make shared transport a general election issue.
Mobility Partnership Ireland (MPI ), an industry group representing leading Irish companies in the shared transport sector such as car sharing, bike and car rental and bus services, said Ireland must act urgently to reduce costs for commuters using shared transport, cut congestion, and help Ireland to meet its carbon reduction targets.
MPI has published a Five Point Plan to ensure that its proposals feature in the next Programme for Government, by making shared transport an election issue, and showing commuters how they would benefit from cheaper and more cost-effective shared transport options.
MPI comprises major transport operators including: Aircoach, Enterprise Mobility, GoCar, FREENOW, Payzone, Bleeper, Moby and Toyota Yukõ. Collectively the partnership offers shared mobility options, including bike rentals, car-hire, bus journeys, ride-hail and seamless payment solutions for travel. The group argues that its proposals are essential for Ireland to make any progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the transport sector.
Transport accounts for a fifth of all Irish carbon emissions – or 21.4%* - and Ireland will face EU fines of at least €82 billion if it fails to reach its reduction targets by 2030.
Joe Quirke, MPI spokesperson, said: “Shared mobility is one of the most effective ways to reduce transport emissions and congestion, particularly in urban areas. With over 2.27 million private cars on Irish roads, many of which are used for short trips, it’s clear that we need to promote cleaner, more efficient alternatives.
Car-sharing, car rental, bike hire, bus journeys and public transport services have the potential to change how people move around, and we need to accelerate that modal shift. We are calling on the next government to take policy measures that can make this happen.” J
Joe Quirke was speaking ahead of the UN’s World Sustainable Transport Day on November 26, which will be marked for the second time this year. MPI is calling on Ireland’s next Government to recognise the role of shared mobility services in achieving Ireland’s 2030 climate targets, cutting congestion, and making commuting more affordable.
Shared mobility services are increasingly being used nationwide. According to recent data from Statistica, e-bike rentals are now among the most-used mobility services in the country. This growing trend reflects a shift away from the reliance on private cars in Ireland.
MPI is confident that the next Government will recognize the importance of shared transport. Although Budget 2025 did not include measures to promote shared transport, Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan has acknowledged in the Dáil that his Department recognizes the challenges faced by private shared mobility providers and remains committed to supporting the expansion of shared mobility options.
