Shortage of taxis in Donegal could be putting pedestrian lives at risk

The lack of availability of taxis in south Donegal could be putting lives at risk and having a knock-on effect on the already beleaguered tourism economy.

That is according to councillors in the Municipal District (MD) of Donegal, where, at the February meeting, a call was made  to contact the taxi regulator to see what could be done.

Cllr Michael McMahon (SF) said: “The situation is becoming very difficult. We are running very short of taxis in Ballyshannon and Bundoran.

“There are two retirements coming up in Bundoran and that will leave us with only two taxis. The people that are doing it are providing a great service 

“In a tourist town or any town, taxis are vital. People want to get a taxi home.”Cllr McMahon asked that a letter be written to the taxi regulator.

This was supported by Cllr Micheál Naughton (FF), who is also manager of the Clanree Hotel in Letterkenny.

“WIth the Vintners’ Association and the Irish Hotel Federation we are looking to see if we can take on our own taxis. 

“People simply can’t get taxis.”

Cllr Naughton suggested that there may be a case for developing a lesser form of licence to make the service more accessible to drivers. 

Cllr McMahon added that what might be needed is a round table conversation with the regulator, Donegal County Council and interested parties such as representatives of the publicans and hoteliers. 

“It is very dangerous to have people walking home in the dark because there are no taxis,” he said. 

Linda McCann who is Acting Area Manager for Donegal MD said: “I will certainly contact the regulator and see what is stopping drivers taking up that role in the community.”