The National Transport Authority (NTA) introduced a fare increase of 9pc from December 1, and extended an additional year-round ‘special rate’ for peak weekend hours from midnight to 4am.
This rate was previously only applied on Christmas Eve, St Stephen’s Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
Abi Marr (21), who started out driving a taxi when she was still only 19, said she initially thought the fare increase was “not a good idea”.
“I thought at first maybe it would scare people from wanting to get taxis, but the reality is all the costs of running a taxi are going up,” she said.
“Drivers need a bit more considering all the expenses.”
In July this year, the NTA published a review which found that overall costs associated with operating a taxi increased by approximately 9-11pc between 2022 and 2024.
Taxi fares have now been increased by 9pc and those pre-booking a taxi through taxi apps will also have to pay an extra €1 fee for this service, with the booking fee increasing from €2 to €3.
This brings the overall increase in booking and taking a taxi during regular hours to more than 10pc.
The NTA said the decision to extend the special premium rate to include weekend peaks throughout the year is an effort to incentivise more drivers to service the night-time economy.
Ms Marr said she believes this tariff or special premium rate is needed “for those late hours, after midnight”.
“Drivers weren’t motivated to work those hours when it paid the same at 8pm on a Saturday,” she said.
“I think the fare increase might encourage drivers to work later, especially during the Christmas season.”
Ms Marr also said the extra cost she has incurred because of the fare increase is significant, as drivers are legally required to get their meter updated and tested.
“I had to pay €150 to have my meter updated and you could get a fine if it’s not done,” she said.
“There is also a metrology test which verifies the meter which is €90. On top of that you must get a suitability test for your car which is €150 every year.
“So, with the increase every single taxi driver must pay over €200 on their car to operate within the new system,” she added.
While the increases have been largely welcomed, some drivers are worried customers are already feeling the pinch and might be put off by the extra cost of using a taxi.
Taxi app Uber has criticised the NTA decision, saying the move will negatively affect the night-time economy and does not address taxi shortages.
Uber said the NTA’s decision to increase pre-booking fees and extend peak-time rates would significantly increase the cost of taxi journeys.
It also points to the NTA’s Taxi Driver Survey, published last August, which found only 14pc of current drivers would be encouraged to start driving at night because of increased prices.
