Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 February 2026
442. Deputy Shane Moynihan asked the Minister for Transport to outline the full scope of the National Transport Authority's forthcoming regulatory assessment of dispatch operator licensing in Ireland; if conditions attached to dispatch operator licences, such as a requirement to be established within the State, will form part of this assessment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12851/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe regulation of the small public service vehicle (SPSV) industry, including the regulatory assessment of dispatch operator licensing in Ireland, 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.
As the Deputy is aware, the structure of the SPSV market has undoubtedly changed over the last number of years, particularly in relation to the role of dispatch operators. I have requested that the NTA conducts a regulatory assessment of dispatch operator licensing in Ireland, in the context of ensuring that the regulatory framework for this element of the overall sector is sufficiently up to date and robust to respond to developments in the SPSV market, since the enactment of the Taxi Regulation Act 2013. In addition, I have requested that all stakeholders are given the opportunity to feed into this work as soon as possible.
The NTA has informed me that they are planning a review of the dispatch operator regulatory framework in Ireland, and intend to seek views from stakeholders as part of this process in the coming period. Where the outcome of this review results in proposals for amendments to the SPSV regulations, the adoption of such amendments will be subject to public consultation. Details of public consultations on SPSV matters can be found on the SPSV Latest News page on the NTA’s website, and all stakeholders are invited to make a submission at the relevant time.
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.
