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The average cost of ordering a taxi is set to rise by 9pc this year, just in time for the Christmas party season. The increase will also see a ‘special rate’ applied year round to weekend journeys.
From December 1, the fee for pre-booking a taxi will rise from two to three euro, while overall fares will increase by an average of 9pc.
There is also a ‘special rate’, which will be applied year-round from Friday night to Sunday morning. Under the special rate, the standing charge for taxis increases from €4.40 to €5.40.
Today’s News in 90 seconds – 20th September 2024
It had previously only applied to journeys taken between Christmas Eve and St Stephen’s Day, and New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, but is being expanded in the hopes of incentivising drivers to service the night-time economy.
These changes follow a review by the National Transport Authority (NTA), which is undertaken approximately every two years. The 2024 review found that the cost of operating a taxi has increased by approximately 9-11pc since the previous report.
Commenting on the approval of the increase, CEO of the National Transport Authority Anne Graham said: “The NTA’s review is essential to ensuring the taxi industry remains sustainable and can continue to offer high-quality and reliable services.
“This 9pc increase provides for the increasing operational costs drivers are facing while balancing the needs of the travelling public”
The NTA said it would review the impact of this fare increase 12 months after implementation, to ensure that all needs are adequately being served.
Over the coming months, taxi meters will be recalibrated in line with the new fares, and taxi operators will be required to display updated fare cards following the implementation date.
