The transport minister has shot down the prospect of private individuals being allowed to use their own cars as Uber-style taxis. Companies such as Uber do not own the cars, nor directly employ taxi drivers. Commission chair Brian McHugh said regulatory barriers in the taxi market had “failed to facilitate innovations that have flourished in other countries, and consumers are suffering as result”. Mr O'Brien said there was "no intention" to change the policy to allow private drivers on apps. "We support the Taxis for Ireland Coalition call for a national taxi strategy that strengthens the market while supporting a well regulated industry.”

Source: Irish Examiner February 20, 2026 19:00 UTC