Competition authority warning over new taxi regulations

The Competition Authority has issued a warning about proposed new rules for taxis.

It has told the National Transport Authority that they could increase prices and waiting times for consumers.

It believes the planned regulations would make it more difficult for people to get into the industry, resulting in reduced competition between drivers.

The NTA last week launched their public consultation on the draft of the new regulations. Among the changes included is the provision that all new entrants to the taxi industry must drive wheelchair-accessible vehicles that are less than six years old.

The Competition Authority claims these vehicles are more expensive to purchase and operate than other vehicle types, and "increases the financial burden for new entrants".