Dublin Airport warns of delays as taxi drivers to stage protest this evening

"In a passenger advisory issued this afternoon, the airport said the demonstration due to take place between 4.30pm and 6.30pm, may lead to "heavier than usual" congestion on roads approaching Dublin Airport. "Some delays are possible," it warned, advising those with flights to give themselves "plenty of time" for their journey. Airport Police will work alongside gardaí and local authority traffic management teams in an effort to minimise disruption for passengers and staff."

"The protest comes amid an escalating dispute between taxi drivers and Uber over the company's recently introduced fixed-fare option, which drivers claim undermines the regulated fare structure set by the National Transport Authority. Uber recently introduced the optional fixed-price model, guaranteeing passengers a maximum fare upfront instead of the usual estimated range that can rise with traffic or route changes. Organisers have said that they "sincerely apologise" for disruption but insisted the protest is necessary."

"Some 1,500 taxi drivers are set to engage in a 'slow drive' at three points including Dublin Airport, Clontarf, and Phoenix Park, from 4.30pm this evening, before converging on Government Buildings. It marks a second round of protests following demonstrations outside Leinster House last Saturday, with today's protests sparked by the reported failure of the Government to meet a talks ultimatum by Monday evening. The company says it will reduce "meter anxiety", and passengers will still pay the lower amount if the meter comes in under the fixed price. Taxi drivers are also asking Dublin Airport to stop facilitating Uber at the airport, saying that the introduction of fixed fares will have a "detrimental" impact on their livelihoods. Driver representatives say the model leaves many earning less during heavy traffic and have warned that further action is likely unless the issue is addressed."

A 'slow drive' protest by about 1,500 taxi drivers will take place from 4.30pm to 6.30pm at Dublin Airport, Clontarf and Phoenix Park, then converge on Government Buildings. The airport warned of heavier-than-usual congestion and advised passengers to allow extra time, with Airport Police, gardaí and local traffic teams coordinating to minimise disruption. The action stems from a dispute over Uber's new optional fixed-price model, which taxi drivers say undermines the National Transport Authority's regulated fares and reduces earnings in heavy traffic. Drivers demand government intervention and want Dublin Airport to stop facilitating Uber; further action is threatened.

Read at Irish Independent