Bus Services

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 January 2023

Wednesday, 18 January 2023

Questions (202)

Rose Conway-Walsh

Question:

202. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to reports that since a multinational transport company has taken over a private bus operator in the State, the fares for ten journey passes have been increased by 33.3% from Castlebar and Ballina to Galway, and by 53% from Claremorris to Galway; if he accepts that this will particularly hit workers who choose to use the bus to commute to work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63960/22]

Written answers

Minister for Transport

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 regulation of fares charged to passengers in respect of public transport services provided under public service obligation (PSO) contracts. 

However, the NTA does not have a role in the setting of fares for services provided by commercial operators. That is a matter for the individual commercial operators themselves. 

Therefore, the question raised in relation to the increase in fares is an operational matter for the company concerned.