asked the Minister for Justice whether he will permit a nominal increase in fares charged by hackney and taxi owners to offset the losses arising from increased duty on petrol.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Hackney and Taxi Fares.
I have asked the Commissioner of the Gárda Síochána to give consideration to the Deputy's suggestion in so far as taxi fares are concerned. Hackney fares are not controlled. I should explain that taxi fares are fixed under Section 139 of the Road Traffic Act, 1933, by by-laws, made by the Commissioner, after consultation with the local authorities concerned and with the consent of the Minister for Local Government.
Is the Minister aware that the suggestion in the question is that fares may be increased? Is it the idea that the increase in the petrol duty should not be allowed to permit of fares being increased?
That is another question.