Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 September 2022
166. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Transport if he will be introducing a rail-ticket price initiative for customers similar to that offered in Germany; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41965/22]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the regulation of fares charged to passengers in respect of public transport services provided under public service obligation (PSO) contracts.
The PSO programme represents a significant expenditure of taxpayers' money, and funding has increased in recent years to cater for additional services and growing capacity. Any assessment of a proposed change to public transport fare structures would be a matter for the NTA to consider in the first instance.
In light of the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have forwarded the Deputy’s question in relation to the possible introduction of a rail-ticket price initiative for customers similar to that offered in Germany, to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
