Nationwide Ride-Hailing Proposed for Rural Ireland to Boost Economy, Safety

John Feeney proposes nationwide ride-hailing services, like Uber, as a solution to support rural economies and keep pubs open in Ireland, building on the benefits of Local Link bus services. He notes that while urban centers have taxis, rural Ireland lacks such services entirely.

Feeney believes regulated ride-hailing would offer several benefits: enabling access to commercial and healthcare services and safe socialization for those without private transport; enhancing the economic viability of rural pubs and restaurants by increasing trade from locals and tourists; and improving road safety by reducing drink-driving risks, thereby lowering fatalities and injuries.

Additionally, it could create employment for private car owners, provide independence for older or disabled individuals who cannot drive, and reduce the need for individual car ownership. Feeney cites rural England as an example where ride-hailing has successfully helped people maintain independence. He argues that the taxi lobby and government inaction are failing rural citizens, and car-hailing could address issues like rural pub decline, isolation, wellbeing, and road safety.