Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 14 September 2022
142. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Transport if he will instruct the National Transport Authority to ensure that the privatised Dublin Bus routes, formerly known as the 747 and 748, continue to accept the travel pass for use on their services [44707/22]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I am responsible for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in day-to-day operational matters of public transport operators, including those related to the operation of commercial bus services, their fare structures, or the acceptance of free travel passes. Further, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has no direct involvement with the free travel scheme on commercial services either.
While all public service obligation (PSO) transport services, including rural Local Link services, provide free travel to eligible pass holders, my understanding is that only some commercial operators provide the service.
Those private bus companies that have chosen to opt into the Free Travel Scheme are reimbursed for carrying non-fare paying passengers at a discount to reflect the 'fares foregone' nature of the scheme.
In view of the above the issue raised by the Deputy would be a matter for the commercial arm of Dublin Bus in conjunction with the Department of Social Protection. Therefore, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to Dublin Bus for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
