This Mayo taxi driver is offering free trips for Leaving Cert students for a worthy cause

In a few weeks, a Mayo man will continue a very charitable tradition he began three years ago.

Joe Freeley, who runs Joe Maxi Taxi Co, will be providing free trips on the night of August 17 to those celebrating their Leaving Cert results.

In place of a fare, Joe will be collecting voluntary donations to Pieta House instead.

This is the Ballyhaunis man's third year offering the charitable service, and it has been a great success in the past.

Joe says that having raised a large family he is more than familiar with the stresses and struggles young people go through.

"I'm fortunate to have reared a large, healthy family, all scattered around the world; two daughters and six sons, one granddaughter and five grandsons.

"I've experienced the ups and downs that teenagers go through at results time and thought it a great opportunity to highlight the great work that Pieta House provide," Joe told the Irish Examiner.

Joe's taxi

"Not everyone is cerebrating their results, and it is such a stressful time for students.

"Suicide has devistated familes all over this country, and my gesture may just help one person seeking help."

Joe is happy to sacrifice a night's wages to help those at risk of suicide and provide an affordable and safe way home for young people.

"It's a small contribution to do every year, my fuel cost is no more than €30 for the night - a very small sarcrifice to hopefully help someone."