Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 November 2014
1125. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on recent fare increases by public transport operators; his further views on whether the new fares are affordable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41905/14]
View answer1126. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on whether public transport users are receiving a good quality service for the amount that they are paying to use services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41978/14]
View answer1127. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if further funding will be allocated in budget 2015 to ensure public transport users are not subjected to further ticket price increases and enough money is provided to ensure an efficient and reliable public transport service is in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41979/14]
View answer1137. Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the reason public transport fares have increased with effect from 1 November 2014, in view of the fact that the crude oil price has decreased by approximately 20% in recent months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42257/14]
View answer1139. Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his role in approving or allowing the proposed increase in public transport fares; and the way in which this increase is justified given that the subventions from the State have not been reduced and passenger numbers are up. [42265/14]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1125 to 1127, inclusive, and 1137 and 1139 together.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) is the statutory body with responsibility for overseeing the delivery of public transport services and also the regulation of fares charged in respect of public transport services provided under public service contracts.
In contrast to a trend of reducing PSO allocations in recent years, I have ensured that the level of Public Service Obligation for bus and rail services is being maintained in 2015 at current levels. The allocation and payment of the subvention to all operators is decided by the NTA in accordance with their Public Service Obligation (PSO) contracts with the companies.
I have referred the Deputies' questions to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive replies within ten working days.
