Deliveroo calls for legislation to protect delivery riders

The company is launching a new ‘Right to Ride Safely’ campaign in response to what it says is a 40 per cent increase in the total number of abusive incidents towards riders in the last 12 months.

These incidents include verbal abuse, reports of racism and sexism and illegal activity such as theft of an order, a rider’s vehicle, or their delivery equipment.

The government has already committed to examining the introduction of a specific offence of assaulting a retail worker.

Deliveroo argues that any new offence should also cover delivery riders for the entire duration of delivery from accepting the order, travelling to collect it and through to consumer drop-off.

It also wants the legislation to make clear that restaurants and other hospitality settings are included in the definition of a retail premise.

Helen Maher, regional director for Deliveroo Ireland, said: “Everyone deserves to feel safe while doing their job. Delivery riders play a vital role in our retail and hospitality industry and should not be at risk of abuse or attacks simply for being on the road.

“We are calling on the government to protect delivery riders so they can continue to connect restaurants and shops with their local communities without fear of harm.”

Deliveroo shared testimony from Diego, who has been a rider since 2022 and has been attacked twice while on the road.

“On two separate occasions I have been physically attacked by people who tried to steal my motorcycle, without which I couldn’t earn a living,” he said.

“Couriers like me are providing an important service and shouldn’t feel unsafe working or feel that we have to avoid certain areas of Dublin.

“I hope the government takes this campaign seriously as it could make a huge difference.”