Parking situation a 'shambles' for Kilkenny taxi drivers

Councillors in Kilkenny are calling for more dialogue between Kilkenny County Council and local taxi drivers in order to address concerns surrounding the suitable location of taxi ranks during large scale events.

A number of taxi drivers were left frustrated during last year's Savour Kilkenny festival, with the re-location of the taxi rank on the Parade to Patrick Street during the festival deemed unsuitable in the eyes of many drivers.

At present, there are approximately 220 licensed taxi drivers in Co Kilkenny. 

Cllr Eugene McGuinness organised a delegation from the taxi industry to meet with City Engineer, Ian Gardner and Caitriona Corr (Cycling Officer/Active Travel) to offer their input in recent days.

Speaking after the meeting, Cllr McGuinness, said: "As our city continues to evolve the importance of taxi services in providing efficient and accessible transportation remains paramount."

The Independent councillor also raised the matter at March's sitting of the Municipal District of Kilkenny City in which Director of Services of Kilkenny Council, Tim Butler, described the parking situation as a 'shambles' for taxi drivers during the Savour Festival adding, a workshop and meeting with local taxi representatives would be the desired next steps. 

This is not the first time councillors in the city area have discussed the problematic occurrence for taxi drivers.

At November's municipal meeting, Fianna Fail councillor, Andrew McGuinness, described the lack of a suitable rank for taxi drivers during the Savour Kilkenny festival as 'not fair'.

The local Fianna Fail representative said a similar situation 'needs to be prevented' in the future, adding taxi drivers are key to the success of festivals in Kilkenny.