Deliveroo is calling on the Government to bring forward new legislation that protects delivery riders from assault.
Its new campaign launching today, called Right to Ride Safely, follows new figures released by the company revealing a 40% increase in the total number of abusive incidents towards riders in the last 12 months when compared to the 12 months prior.
This includes verbal abuse, reports of racism and sexism and illegal activity such as theft of an order, a rider’s vehicle, or their delivery equipment.
In line with the Programme for Government 2025, which emphasises creating safer communities and supporting workers, Deliveroo believes extending protections for both delivery riders and traditional retail workers is essential.
The previous government had indicated their support for the introduction of such a law and in the new programme for government there is a clear commitment to look to introduce a Bill for the protection of retail workers.
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 would like to see the Government extend the scope of the offence so it applies for the entire duration of delivery from accepting the order, travelling to collect it and through to consumer drop-off. Deliveroo is also calling on the Government to make clear in the legislation that restaurants and other hospitality settings are included in the definition of a retail premise.
Delivery riders are crucial to local economies and communities across Ireland, connecting businesses to new customers, supporting our retail and hospitality sectors, and driving greater consumer spending. They deserve to feel safe while they work, whether that is riding to a restaurant, on the way to a consumer with the delivery, or at the consumer’s address.
Diego, has been a rider for Deliveroo since 2022, and since then has been attacked twice while on the road. He says: “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. 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.”
Deliveroo has already implemented market-leading support for its riders, including accident insurance, earnings support during illness and financial support on the birth of a child. However, legislative action is critical to send a strong message that abuse against retail workers and delivery riders will not be tolerated in Ireland.
It also introduced a Respect Charter last year, backed by several restaurants, to cultivate a culture of respect and professionalism among riders and partners on the Deliveroo platform.
