The Pat Kenny Show Taxi drivers are set to bring Dublin to a standstill today
Nov 27, 2025
David Mitchell, a taxi driver and protest coordinator, discusses the impending Dublin protest against Uber's fixed-fare feature, emphasizing its threat to driver incomes. He outlines planned protest routes while addressing concerns about public taxi availability. Richard Boyd-Barrett, a People Before Profit TD, advocates for stronger regulations and proposes a non-profit app alternative. The conversation highlights worries about low Uber fares, technology fees, and the potential loss of wheelchair-accessible taxis, stressing the need for government action.
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Coordinated Slow Drives To Escalate Pressure
- Taxi drivers plan coordinated slow drives at three Dublin locations to pressure the government over Uber's new fixed-fare feature.
- David Mitchell says the action escalates after failed notices to the Department of Transport and NTA.
Fixed Fares Exploit Regulatory Loophole
- Uber introduced a fixed-fare option that drivers can agree with customers, which the taxi side says exploits a regulatory loophole.
- David Mitchell urges the NTA and Department of Transport to update 2016 legislation to close that loophole.
Hidden Fees Can Inflate Over Time
- 'Technology' or 'priority' fees on apps can mask extra charges and may be raised over time, reducing driver pay or increasing customer costs.
- David Mitchell warns these add-ons can grow, undermining fair fares and wheelchair-accessible vehicle viability.