As 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 provision of public transport services nationally and for the regulation of fares charged to passengers in respect of public transport services provided under public service obligation (PSO) contracts.
In light of the Authority's responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's specific question in relation to the possible extension of the short-hop zone to more train stations, to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.