The Taxis for Ireland Coalition has issued a stark warning about the challenges Galway residents and visitors may face getting home safely during the festive season.
As one of the busiest weekends of the year approaches, the coalition has urged the public to plan ahead while using a taxi this Christmas, highlighting an anticipated surge in demand for taxis and public transport.
This warning comes amid a broader call for action to address the chronic shortage of taxis nationwide, a problem that the coalition says intensifies during periods of high demand. Appealing to newly elected TDs and parties involved in Government formation, the coalition is appealing for politicians to prioritise the increase in the number of taxis operating nationally.
Safety at stake as ‘demand outpaces supply’
According to the CEO of the Vintners’ Federation of Ireland, Pat Crotty, no region, urban or rural, will be immune to the effects of the expected taxi supply shortage this Christmas.
“With the festive season upon us, the shortage of taxis is a pressing concern that affects both urban and rural communities. This isn’t just about convenience; it’s about safety and ensuring that everyone can enjoy their celebrations responsibly. We want people to socialise safely and responsibly, as well as a transport environment that facilitates this.
“We don’t want people resorting to unsafe practices – whether that be drunk driving or unlicensed taxis – due to the lack of transportation.”
Crotty emphasised that rural areas, where public transport options are minimal or nonexistent, are particularly vulnerable. “There are many small and large towns that do not have bus services and if they do, they do not run throughout the night. This demand on taxis will certainly be exhausted over the Christmas period.”
Calling for action
During the recent General Election, representatives from Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, the Labour Party, and the Social Democrats expressed support for increasing taxi numbers to meet growing demand. The coalition is now urging these parties and Independent TDs to follow through on their commitments during government formation talks.
“We’re not asking for deregulation,” the Coalition clarified. “We simply want taxi numbers to reflect the growing demand, particularly during high-traffic periods like Christmas.”
Technology and urban Challenges
Aisling Dunne, Head of Public Policy for Bolt Ireland, noted another issue exacerbating the problem:“During the Christmas period, many drivers turn off their apps and focus on roadside pickups due to the overwhelming demand. This often leaves users stranded late at night in unsafe, cold, and dark areas. We need policy measures that address this shortfall.”
Looking Ahead
The Taxis for Ireland Coalition has launched a website outlining its 2024 manifesto, including proposals to address the Small Public Service Vehicle (SPSV ) supply shortage. Galway residents and visitors are encouraged to explore the Coalition’s efforts at www.taxicoalition.ie
As Galway embraces the festive spirit, the Coalition’s message is clear: plan ahead, stay safe, and ensure transport options are secure. For policymakers, the time to act is now—before another festive season is overshadowed by avoidable safety concerns.
Taxi numbers in Galway have declined by over around five percent since before the COVID-19 pandemic.
New figures from the NTA are highlighting regional disparities in access to essential transport, with counties in the West heavily impacted by taxi shortages.
Licences across Western counties dropped by almost 9% in the past five years, while numbers fell in 23 counties across Ireland.
The Taxis for Ireland Coalition, wants action from the National Transport Authority to increase licence numbers by 30 per cent in the next three years.
Frank Fahy, who is involved in the taxi industry, says a lot of taxi drivers changed jobs during the pandemic.
