"The taxi industry in rural Ireland is in a complete crisis," that's according to Patrick Gilsenan, from the 'Call a Car' taxi service in Monaghan town.
Mr Gilsenan claims a new regime which was introduced by the National Transport Authority (NTA) a number of years ago has effectively "wiped out" taxi services in rural areas.
Speaking to Northern Sound about his frustrations, the Monaghan man called for a change to taxi regulations due to the impact it is having on him and his drivers.
He claims potential taxi drivers have felt "demoralised" as a result of the low pass rate that is associated with the compulsory examination that is required to drive a taxi.
The local taxi driver says the examination was orchestrated by the NTA under the new regime and as a result the taxi industry has faced a "huge shortage" of drivers.
He added that publicans across the area have also been "hit bad" by taxi shortages due to people opting to stay at home because they can't access the service, and described the current situation as a "sad state of affairs."
