Taxi fares are to increase by over 8% from the beginning of November. The Commission for Taxi Regulation says the rise reflects increased costs associated with owning and operating a cab.
The increase of 8.3% has been announced following a five month consultation process with drivers and the general public.
The new charges mean the initial fee for hiring a taxi will rise to €4.10 between 8am and 8pm, with a premium rate of €4.45 at other times, on Sundays and during public holidays. Further charges are applied depending on time or distance travelled.
To address, what the Commission for Taxi Regulation says is, an under supply of taxis around Christmas, the premium rate will also apply between December 24 and St Stephen's Day as well as on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.
There is no increase in charges for extra passengers or for booking a cab but those who soil vehicles will now be liable for a €140 surcharge, an increase of €15.
Regulator Kathleen Doyle says the new fares have been drawn up with consideration for both taxi driver and consumers. There will be a further review in the next two years. She stressed that the fares are the maximum legal charges and can be reduced at the driver's discretion.
