The taxi app FreeNow is set to introduce a €1 'technology fee' on trips from the beginning of next month.
The ride hailing app sent an email to Irish customers yesterday explaining that the charge would come into effect from 1 August . The sum will apply to journeys that are directly booked via the FreeNow mobile app.
The news was met with criticism given that taxi shortages continue to pose a problem in Dublin.
READ MORE : Luas could soon run from 1am to 5am - but Dubs aren't sure it will be safe
"I’m sure this will automatically solve all problems for anyone trying to get a taxi on a Saturday night in Dublin," Fine Gael TD Neale Richmond sarcastically wrote on Twitter.
The app currently takes 15 per cent commission off an individual driver's fare. The proposed technology fee will not apply to taxis that are hailed off the street. A Twitter user pointed out that a €2 booking fee already applies for those who schedule a trip via the app.
“Adding a ‘Technology Fee’ on top of a €2 call out fee? Forget it. They should invest themselves in their own technology,” the user wrote.
The issue of taxi shortages in Dublin came to a head this June after it emerged 17,000 users attempted to book a taxi over the course of an hour one Saturday night. The high demand resulted in a debate over the safety of passengers when taxis are unavailable. Many users took to social media to raise their concerns about accessing a lift home as a result.
The company has defended the added charge, stating that the bill is necessary to improve its overall app technology and quality. FreeNow is Ireland’s leading taxi app and the service is available to customers in Dublin, Cork, Galway and Limerick.
Several users suggested that the levy would result in people abandoning taxi apps and were in favour of ringing up individual taxi companies. Others recommended Bolt as a result of FreeNow’s new charge, a similar taxi app available in Irish cities.
READ MORE :
- Fire crews battle forest blaze since early hours of this morning
- Restaurant closes its kitchen due to '40C+' heat inside during hot weather
- Mum of tragic Josh Dunne says son 'should be here celebrating' on 18th birthday
- Uptake for Covid-19 vaccine for children highest in Dublin
- Lotto results Ireland: Dubliner scoops incredible six figure prize in Euromillions draw
