Taxi Drivers Protest Against Uber Causes Disruption Near Dublin Airport and City Centre
Commuters in Dublin faced considerable traffic delays during rush hour as taxi drivers staged a go-slow protest against Uber. The protest began at 4:30 PM on Wednesday, coinciding with peak travel times and significantly impacting access to Dublin Airport.
Details of the Protest
The taxi drivers are voicing their concerns over the introduction of fixed fare options on the Uber app. This change was implemented at the beginning of the month and has sparked frustration among drivers. They argue that these fixed fares threaten their livelihood by limiting earning potential.
Impact on Commuters and Passengers
By around 5:30 PM, Dublin Airport reported that the ongoing protest was leading to delays for passengers attempting to access the airport from the north of the city. In anticipation of disruptions, Dublin City Council warned motorists to expect heavy congestion on major routes, including Estuary Road.
- Drivers should consider using Junction 4 (Ballymun) of the M50 as an alternative route.
- Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) advised to allow extra time for commutes in affected areas.
Statements from Taxi Drivers
Derek O’Keeffe, a representative for Taxi Drivers of Ireland, emphasized that protests would persist weekly until their demands were addressed. He stated, “We will not go away. We will not be ignored.”
Under the new system, Uber customers receive a projected fare range and a fixed fare option during booking. While Uber argues that fixed fares encourage more bookings, drivers claim that delays can reduce their earnings significantly, sometimes to a third of the metered fare.
Conclusion
The tension between Irish taxi drivers and Uber demonstrates a growing conflict over fare structures that could reshape the ride-hailing landscape in Dublin. As protests continue, the impact on both drivers and passengers remains significant, raising questions about regulatory responses and future negotiations between stakeholders.
