Watchdog calls for removal of Uber restrictions - in move that will mean cheaper fares but infuriate taxi industry

"The CCPC says the status quo is holding back innovation in the industry, and means a lack of choice for customers, as well as the prospect of long waits or staying at home because of problems with taxi availability. In other jurisdictions, firms such as Uber operate 'surge pricing' which is based on demand. This means fares can be cheaper than traditional taxis at times, often for shorter trips and off-peak journeys."

"In a move that will infuriate the taxi industry, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is recommending that all drivers be allowed to use their own cars to provide taxi rides, without needing a special licence. This would mean they would be regulated only for safety and service. Uber, which has been operating in the Dublin market since 2014, is not allowed to use private cars to pick up passengers, as it does in other countries."

The CCPC recommends allowing all drivers to use their own cars to provide taxi rides without a special licence, with regulation confined to safety and service. Uber has operated in Dublin since 2014 but is not permitted to use private cars to pick up passengers. The CCPC says the current regime is holding back innovation, reducing customer choice and contributing to long waits and a nationwide taxi shortage. A CCPC survey found four in ten people had difficulty hailing a cab in December; almost two-thirds of rural residents report too few taxis and 60% want a fixed-fare option. The NTA warned non-regulation would undermine the regulated system.

Read at Irish Independent