TAXI LICENCE NUMBERS have fallen in 23 out of 26 counties in the Republic of Ireland, new figures show, which some say highlights stark regional disparities in access to essential transport.

The border region saw a big decrease, with 14.5% fewer taxi licences now than in 2019. Monaghan is worst affected, with a 26% decrease.

The Midlands-East region excluding Dublin, has also seen a significant decrease compared to 2019 levels, falling by over 17%.

Both urban and rural areas have been impacted by taxi shortages in recent years.

The figures came in response to a recent parliamentary question by Independent TD Carol Nolan.

The Taxis for Ireland coalition says the “dramatic” drop in available taxis raises concerns for the hospitality industry and everyday passengers, particularly as tourists descend over the summer months.

Adrian Cummins, CEO of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, said the lack of taxis is a “crippling blow” to rural Ireland’s hospitality sector.

“These businesses often rely on taxis to get customers home safely, especially after dark.

“With little to no public transport links in rural areas and without a vital taxi service, many people simply won’t go out, further squeezing already strained rural businesses.”

The decline in taxi numbers is attributed to a number of factors, including the fallout from the Covid-19 pandemic, an “onerous” entry system, and costly barriers for new drivers – such as outlays of up to €59,000 for a vehicle.

The Taxis for Ireland Coalition is calling on the NTA and the Government to increase taxi vehicles by 30% by 2027.

They’ve also called for the removal of the WAV requirement for newly registered SPSVs and a re-assessment of the SPSV Driver Entry Test’s geography-based knowledge requirements.

“The removal of the WAV requirement but the continuation of the WAV grant would mean a larger pool of taxis to choose from, meaning that people that do not need a WAV will not be booking one unnecessarily.”

The group has previously called on the government to do more to increase taxi supply, including promoting the profession to young people.