Lack of taxis is hurting night-time economy says Red C poll

New research from polling company Red C has found that a lack of taxis and public transport is affecting Ireland’s night-time economy.

The research, with a sample size of 1,512 nationwide and conducted by Red C on behalf of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, found that nearly 6 in 10 respondents said that public transport is poor after pubs and restaurants close.

According to the research, availability of taxis was a similar issue, with “very poor perceived availability” during off-peak periods.

2 in 5 of those polled think the availability of taxis during the day is “good.”

7 in 10 of those who took the survey said that transport home from restaurants/bars is difficult in their area, and around half say they would support legislation for ride-sharing apps.

The issue of taxi availability has plagued Dublin since the last of Covid-19 restrictions were lifted in early 2022, with research showing that a significant amount of taxi drivers retired or quit during the pandemic, while high fuel costs associated with the broader cost-of-living crisis another factor in the lack of taxis on Irish roads.

The lack of taxis has become a political issue, with An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar stating last August that he was looking to further deregulate the Irish taxi industry, which in turn would allow for the likes of Uber to operate in Ireland.

Commenting on the report, Adrian Cummins CEO of Restaurants Association of Ireland said “the research shows there is now clear demand from the public to improve our provision of availability of public transport and increase the number of taxis in Ireland at night.”

“There is also a demand for new legislation for ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft which will help Restaurants, Pubs, and the Nighttime economy,” he said.