Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 April 2026
156. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Transport when the NTA will report back to him on the issues relating to taxi dispatch companies (details supplied) and others, and the impact of same on the livelihoods of taxi drivers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31344/26]
View answerThe regulation of the small public service vehicle (SPSV) industry, including the regulation of dispatch operators, is a matter for the independent transport regulator, the National Transport Authority (NTA), under the provisions of the Consolidated Taxi Regulation Acts 2013 and 2016. I have no role in the day-to-day operations of the SPSV sector.
The requirements on dispatch operators in Ireland were last set in 2015, prior to the increase in popularity of app-based providers. As a result, all dispatch operators in Ireland are subject to the same regulatory requirements, regardless of how they connect with passengers or how many drivers choose to work with them.
The NTA recently held a Call for Inputs consultation on the dispatch operator licensing framework to ensure the regulatory framework remains suitable for passenger needs and an evolving SPSV sector. The Call for Inputs closed on 17 April 2026. Input provided will inform the NTA's process and decision-making in revising the current dispatch operator framework. I understand that the NTA will consider all responses received and expect to follow up on this Call for Inputs with a consultation on dispatch operator regulations later in 2026.
Given the NTA's responsibility in this area, I have referred your question to the NTA for further information. Please advise my private office if you have not received a reply within 10 working days.
