CCPC Calls for Opening of Irish Taxi Market to Uber and Bolt
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is urging the Irish government to open up the taxi market to ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt, citing supply shortages and a lack of consumer choice. The move would involve removing regulatory barriers that currently restrict these platforms to acting solely as booking agents for licensed taxi drivers.
Taxi Supply Shortages
Recent research from the CCPC indicates a significant shortage in taxi availability across Ireland. A survey conducted in January and February 2026 revealed that 57% of consumers do not believe there are enough taxis in their area, with 40% of those who attempted to book a taxi in December experiencing difficulties [1]. The issue is particularly acute outside of Dublin, where only 28% of respondents felt there were sufficient taxis, falling to 21% in Connacht and Ulster [2].
Demand for Ride-Hailing Services
The CCPC’s research also highlighted strong consumer demand for ride-hailing options. 49% of those surveyed expressed a desire for the choice of using services like Uber or Bolt, with 60% supporting the implementation of fixed-fare options [1]. Currently, Uber operates in Dublin but is limited to facilitating bookings with existing licensed taxi drivers.
Proposed Regulatory Changes
The CCPC proposes allowing private drivers to use their own vehicles to provide taxi services through platforms like Uber and Bolt, subject to appropriate safety and service regulations [3]. This would represent a significant deregulation of the Irish taxi market, potentially mirroring the impact of deregulation in 2000, which drastically reduced the value of taxi licenses [3].
Potential Benefits and Concerns
The CCPC argues that opening the market will foster innovation and increase competition, potentially leading to lower fares, particularly for shorter trips and off-peak hours [3]. However, the move is expected to face opposition from the existing taxi industry. The CCPC emphasizes that any latest entrants would still be subject to regulatory oversight to ensure high service and safety standards [4].
Next Steps
The CCPC’s recommendations arrive ahead of the National Transport Authority’s (NTA) regulatory assessment of dispatch operator licensing, scheduled to begin later this year. The CCPC has stated its intention to engage with the NTA during the consultation process [1].