The Oireachtas Transport Committee has been told taxi apps like Uber and FreeNow are shifting power away from drivers, with concerns raised over fixed fares and rising commissions.

Taxi representative groups warned the changes threaten driver incomes, undermine the regulated meter system and are reducing rural taxi availability.

Calls were made for stronger regulation of app companies or the creation of a publicly controlled booking system to protect drivers and passengers.

Speaking to Ocean FM News, Daithi Feehily, owner of Feehily’s Taxi, Coach and Bus Hire, said app technology has grown rapidly but high commissions are making it harder for drivers to earn a sustainable living.