Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Housing, Planning & Local Government Barry Cowen has called on Minister Simon Coveney to explore the option of revoking Greyhound’s licence if it continues to hike up standard charges for new customers.
The company is back in the spotlight again after customers complained that it was was making it difficult for them to opt out of the pay by weight charging system. Pay by weight charges have been frozen for 12 months while the Government decides how to regulate the system and the sector.
Deputy Cowen commented, “The moves by Greyhound to hike up standard charges for new customers is unacceptable and should not be tolerated. The company appears intent on making is as difficult as possible for their customers to remain on a fixed charge plan by insisting that they make contact with them to opt out of the pay by weight system.
“I am also gravely concerned by reports today that new customers who want to switch to Greyhound are only being offered vastly inflated flat charges. This type of price gouging is completely unacceptable and should not be tolerated. It is extremely unfair and will cause unnecessary financial stress for many families across Dublin.
“I have spoken with Minister Simon Coveney and have urged him to meet with the company and explore what action can be taken. It may be possible to revoke the company’s licence if it continues with this sharp practice.
“I hope the Minister will move quickly on this issue. The 12 month price freeze was designed to ensure that customers would not be unfairly charged, and we must ensure that all providers play fair and not abuse the system”.