Dublin Bay North TD Barry Heneghan has raised serious concerns in the Dáil over what he described as the “unacceptable and discriminatory” refusal of wheelchair users by wheelchair accessible taxis, despite significant public investment in the scheme.
Raising the issue with Minister of State Jerry Buttimer, Heneghan highlighted repeated cases of constituents being left waiting hours for a taxi that would agree to take them, particularly at night.
“This is happening across Dublin, and it is deeply concerning. I have constituents who are wheelchair users being refused service by taxis that have received public funding specifically to provide accessibility. That is simply not acceptable,” he said.
Heneghan pointed to the contradiction at the heart of the system, noting that drivers are required to complete mandatory training in the use of wheelchair equipment, including lifts and clamping systems, yet are still refusing passengers on the basis that they cannot operate that equipment.
“That excuse does not stand up to scrutiny. The training is there, it is mandatory, and it is now provided free of charge. These drivers also have clear statutory obligations to provide the service,” he said.
In response, Minister Buttimer confirmed that just 13 complaints relating to wheelchair accessible vehicles were received in Dublin over the past year, with only a small number of penalties issued, including a very limited number of fixed charge notices.
Heneghan said these figures do not reflect the lived reality of wheelchair users.
“The reality on the ground is very different. People are being left stranded. They are waiting hours. And far too often, they are simply not logging complaints because they feel nothing will change,” the independent TD said.
He also raised concerns about the operation of the WAV grant scheme, questioning whether drivers who consistently provide accessible services are being prioritised, and whether those who refuse passengers are being properly held to account.
“If public money is being used to make vehicles accessible, then there must be real accountability. Drivers who refuse passengers should face consequences, and those who are doing the job properly should be supported and prioritised,” he said.
Heneghan has called for stronger enforcement, improved accountability within the system, and immediate action to ensure that wheelchair users can rely on taxi services at all times. He has highlighted the need for a zero tolereance approach of this form of blatant discrimination which has been expereinced by Wheelchhair users across North Dublin and Dublin City
“This is about basic dignity and equal access. Wheelchair users should not have to wonder whether they will be picked up or left behind. Right now, that certainty simply does not exist and that has to change,” he stated.