A Dublin TD is calling on the government to intervene to help taxi drivers who are struggling to pay for rising fuel costs.
Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin South West John Lahart said that the rising cost of fuel has placed a 'substantial strain' on the industry.
Deputy Lahart said: "COVID-19 has had a profound impact on the lives of many people including those within the taxi industry. Everyone acknowledges that it will be some time before taxi drivers see their earnings return to pre-Covid levels.
"Meanwhile, the rising cost of fuel has placed a substantial strain on the industry.
"Taxi drivers are seeking an increase in €1 per trip to help offset increased fuel charges they’re facing, but I am hopeful that a mooted excise duty reduction may mitigate the necessity for that."
Deputy Lahart also said that taxi drivers have voiced concerns that the upcoming bank holidays on St Patrick's Day are not included in the current taximeter fares programmes.
He said: "As a result, taxi drivers will not be equipped to charge the premium rate which applies all day in relation to standard public holidays.
"This must be addressed as a matter of urgency. We must ensure that our taxi drivers are not operating at a loss due to circumstances beyond their control.''
It comes amid concerns that petrol and diesel could jump by 10c a litre in 10 days as the war in Ukraine intensifies, it was feared last night.
AA Ireland said yesterday that petrol and diesel prices are currently at record levels.
A letter has been sent to Taoiseach Micheal Martin, Tanaiste Leo Varadkar and Energy Minister Eamon Ryan from the Irish Road Haulage Association which outlines “deep concerns at indications of an imminent tightening of supplies."
To get the latest breaking news straight to your inbox, sign up for our free newsletter.
