Uber-style taxis operated by private individuals shot down by minister

Companies such as Uber do not own the cars, nor directly employ taxi drivers. Instead, they operate a digital platform that connects drivers and passengers in real time. File Picture: PA

The transport minister has shot down the prospect of private individuals being allowed to use their own cars as Uber-style taxis.

Darragh O'Brien's intervention comes after the consumer watchdog called for the market to be opened up to rideshare apps, including Uber and Lyft, which allow private individuals to carry passengers. 

Companies such as Uber do not own the cars, nor directly employ taxi drivers. Instead, they operate a digital platform that connects drivers and passengers in real time.

Uber operates in Ireland, but as a traditional taxi-ordering app, and its drivers here are required to have a taxi license and a licensed vehicle. 

To be a taxi driver in Ireland, a person needs to pass the small public service vehicle (SPSV) driver theory test, complete mandatory safeguarding courses, pay the €250 SPSV driver licence application fee, as well as submit forms and documentation to the local garda station — which includes evidence of tax compliance as well as a copy of a driving licence.

Supply shortage

In a report issued on Thursday, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) said its research highlighted a supply shortage in the taxi sector, as 40% of people who tried to get a taxi in December reported difficulties in doing so.

Commission chair Brian McHugh said regulatory barriers in the taxi market had “failed to facilitate innovations that have flourished in other countries, and consumers are suffering as result”.

Mr O'Brien said there was "no intention" to change the policy to allow private drivers on apps. 

He noted the CCPC research, but said he would not be approving any moves to deregulate the industry.

"The protection of the consumer and personal safety are vital objectives, and must continue to be central to how the taxi and hackney sector is regulated and operated. 

"The model where anyone with a private car, not licensed as a small public service vehicle, and an app can provide taxi services does not exist in Ireland. It is not government policy, and there is no intention to introduce it."

In a statement, Uber said "it is clear that the minister for transport and the NTA need to begin a serious reform process that improves access and availability for consumers and drivers".

"We support the Taxis for Ireland Coalition call for a national taxi strategy that strengthens the market while supporting a well regulated industry.”