Getting home from a night out is proving increasingly difficult in Belfast - and we want to know what you think.
Post-pandemic, the number of taxi drivers have drastically decreased.
One firm has reported that around 1,440 drivers before Covid has now decreased to around 900.
And with no late-night bus options available, punters have been left hanging about the city centre much longer than before.
We want to hear from you: What has your experience been on a night out? What do you think the solution is?
Leave your thoughts in the comment section below by clicking here.
What have the transport bosses said?
Translink has said it is aiming to provide further additional later evening services to support the night-time economy.
A spokesperson added: “We are currently running our full bus and train timetable as published. For larger events we also provide additional later evening bus and train services to cater for the increased demand.
“Northern Ireland’s public transport network is vital, for the economic, social and environmental well-being of our society and we aim to provide further additional later evening capacity as we build back post Covid-19 to support the night-time economy.”
One taxi driver for Value Cabs recently spoke to Belfast Live about the ongoing transport problems in the city.
He said between the pandemic slowing business, the rise in the cost of living and the availability of steadier work elsewhere, taxiing had become a much less attractive option.
He said that there had been some talk of a fare increase around March time but it did not progress anywhere before last month's Assembly election.
He also said the lack of taxi drivers around for work meant people were less likely to go into the city centre for fear of waiting hours after a night out, meaning the cycle would continue without intervention.
Meanwhile Stephen Anton from Fonacab said their numbers have been hit hard by drivers leaving and not returning during the pandemic.
He said that from a position of having around 1,440 drivers available before Covid-19, they're down to roughly 900 now.
The Department for Infrastructure (DfI), which is responsible for public transport as well as regulating taxi operators, says it's committed to addressing the issues facing the industry.
A DfI spokesperson said: “The shortage of taxi drivers has many contributory factors. Potential drivers will compare the industry to other driving jobs that do not involve unsociable hours.
“The Covid pandemic has had an impact and resulted in the loss of drivers due to less work, reduced hours and health concerns.
“Cost of living pressures, particularly increased fuel prices, also influence the attractiveness of the industry to potential new recruits.
“DfI is responsible for the regulation of the taxi industry. The Department is committed to working with and helping the taxi industry address the range of issues that it faces.”
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