REVEALED: The number of taxis in Tipperary has dropped considerably over the past 10 years

Overcharging accounted for nearly half of complaints to taxi regulator

placeholder image — Overcharging accounted for nearly half of complaints to taxi regulator

Tipperary is served by just over 220 taxis, down 40 in the past 10 years, according to figures released by an insurance firm specialising in taxi cover.

Between 2016 and 2022 alone, the population of the county grew by over 4,000, according to figures released by Insuremytaxi.ie

The insurance providers said that several years ago it became unaffordable for many people to pursue a career in the profession due to soaring insurance premiums, but that they believe that a new agreement they have reached with insurers should shave hundreds of euro off the average insurance premium, particularly for small public service vehicles outside of Dublin.

Jonathan Hehir, Managing Director of Insuremytaxi.ie believes that the cheaper premiums will attract greater numbers to the taxi industry and bridge the gap between demand and supply.

“We’ve been in discussions over the last 18 months and are delighted to launch this service and much-needed competition to the market," he said.

Mr Hehir said that the shortage of taxis in rural areas was a perennial problem, particularly in isolated rural areas where the cost of providing taxis was often a major obstacle.

"A better-resourced rural taxi service could help combat social isolation in rural areas, particularly for the elderly," he said.

According to the company, there are 186 hackneys in the county and 33 taxis. However, only two hackneys and three taxis are wheelchair accessible. There are 35 limousines available in the county.