Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin South West, John Lahart, is lending his support to calls from the National Taxi Forum to government for interventions to help them with mounting fuel costs.
Deputy Lahart said, "COVID-19 has had a profound impact on the lives of many people including those within the taxi industry. Everyone acknowledges that it will be some time before taxi drivers see their earnings return to pre-Covid levels. Meanwhile, the rising cost of fuel has placed a substantial strain on the industry.
“Taxi drivers are seeking an increase in €1 per trip to help offset increased fuel charges they’re facing, but I am hopeful that a mooted excise duty reduction may mitigate the necessity for that.
"In addition, it is my understanding that the upcoming bank holidays are not included in the current taximeter fares programmes. As a result, taxi drivers will not be equipped to charge the premium rate which applies all day in relation to standard public holidays.
"This must be addressed as a matter of urgency. We must ensure that our taxi drivers are not operating at a loss due to circumstances beyond their control.''
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