Changes to the Local Area Hackney licence scheme are expected to increase transport options across rural Clare, according to local Fine Gael TD Joe Cooney.
The revised scheme, announced by Minister of State for Rural Transport Jerry Buttimer and the National Transport Authority (NTA), opened for applications last week.
The Local Area Hackney licence is designed as a lower cost and more accessible alternative to a standard hackney licence. It allows drivers to operate within a defined local area rather than nationwide. Under the revised system, applicants who can show community support will receive a licence offer without the need for additional assessments.
“That is a welcome and sensible change. It removes a key barrier and will help more local services get up and running quickly,” Deputy Cooney said. “Transport is one of the biggest challenges facing rural communities and this scheme is a practical step towards addressing that gap.”
The number of drivers allowed to operate a single Local Area Hackney vehicle has increased from one to up to five, in a move aimed at improving service availability. A new online map has also been introduced to show which areas are eligible for the scheme, addressing concerns raised by applicants.
“Allowing multiple drivers to operate one vehicle gives greater flexibility and should help ensure a more reliable service, particularly in rural and isolated areas,” Deputy Cooney said. “In many parts of Clare, people rely on neighbours or family for lifts. This will provide a more dependable local option.”
The duration of both driver and vehicle licences has also been extended from three years to five years, reducing administrative requirements for operators.
The NTA said it will publish booking details for Local Area Hackney services on its website (nationaltransport.ie) to make it easier for passengers to access local transport.
Deputy Cooney said the scheme could help address isolation in rural areas.
“This is about helping people stay connected, access services and remain independent in their own communities,” he said. “It will not replace public transport, but it will complement it and fill important gaps, especially in more isolated areas.”
He encouraged individuals, community groups and businesses across Clare to consider applying under the revised scheme.
Speaking on the launch of the scheme, Minister of State with responsibility for Rural Transport, Jerry Buttimer TD, said, “These changes open the door for more people in rural Ireland to play an active role in improving local transport. The updated scheme is simpler, more flexible and built around what communities told us they need. I encourage anyone who has ever thought about helping their neighbours or supporting their local area to take a look at the scheme and consider applying. A single driver can make a big difference to the daily life of a community.”
Full details on the scheme and how to apply can be found at localhackney.ie.