Taxi protest set to cause traffic disruption in Dublin city

Taxi drivers are to hold a “drive-through” protest in Dublin city centre from 2pm today (Tuesday).

The demonstration will run from Phoenix Park and is in response to proposed changes to fare structures.

Traffic in the city is likely to face disruption along the route which runs from the park down the north quays, up O’Connell Street to Parnell Square, back down O’Connell Street to College Green, along Nassau Street and onto Kildare Street where it will disperse.

A spokesman for the Irish Taxi Drivers Federation said the proposed fare changes from May would result in unfair costs to its members and those of the National Private Hire and Taxi Association.

The number of taxis due to take part in the drive-through is unknown at this stage.

The National Transport Authority said it had conducted a wide-ranging public consultation on the matter last year and had been in talks with the industry representative body, the Taxi Advisory Council.