James Browne
Question:346. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding services included within the youth travel card scheme here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51192/21]
View answerTuesday, 19 October 2021
Questions (346)
Written answers
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport, nor decisions on fares.
Following the establishment of the National Transport Authority (NTA) in December 2009, the NTA has responsibility for the regulation of fares charged to passengers in respect of public transport services, provided under public service obligation (PSO) contracts.
As part of Budget 2022 I have secured €25m of funding to provide for the introduction of a Youth Travel Card which will allow any person between the age of 19 and 23 to avail of a 50% discount on fares across the transport network and promote modal shift in the transport sector among this group.
Given the NTA's role in the introduction of the Youth Travel Card, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.