Taxi numbers in Monaghan have declined by 26.5 per cent according to new figures from the National Transport Authority. The figure for Monaghan represents the biggest decline between 2019 and 2023 than any other region in the country. Meanwhile, taxi numbers in Cavan have dropped by 14 per cent.
The figures came in response to a recent parliamentary question by Independent TD Carol Nolan. The statistics also show that both urban and rural areas in the Border Region have been heavily impacted by taxi shortages in recent years with licences dropping by almost 19 per cent here. The Taxis for Ireland Coalition, which counts the Restaurants Association of Ireland and the Vinters' Association among its members, says the figures "highlight stark regional disparities in access to essential transport". The lobby group are calling on the NTA and government to increase the number of taxis in Ireland by 30 per cent by 2027.
Thomas Ehiokwere, has been a taxi driver in Monaghan Town for the past 18 years: "I know people who have just passed their taxi test but, they have no money to buy a vehicle," Thomas told Northern Sound, "They are doing some other jobs to see if they can raise the money to be able to buy a car and join the taxi trade. For you to own one, you buy a vehicle then you will be issued with another licence. Many years ago, when I joined this trade a taxi licence was €8600," Thomas added.
