Transport Costs

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 February 2023

Wednesday, 22 February 2023

Questions (81, 83)

Matt Carthy

Question:

81. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to Iarnród Éireann proposals to charge holders of free travel passes a fee when booking journeys online to Newry, Belfast and other locations; how his Department communicates its expectations in relation to how the free travel pass scheme should operate with Iarnród Eireann; if such a booking fee is in breach of this; his position on the proposal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8991/23]

Bríd Smith

Question:

83. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Transport if he will clarify the position of holders of free travel cards when using train services; the reason Irish Rail imposes a booking fee on some services; when this practice was first introduced; if the imposition of such fees undermines the concept of the free travel scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8995/23]

Written answers

Minister for Transport

I propose to take Questions Nos. 81 and 83 together.

As the 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 issues raised by the Deputies in relation to fees charged by Iarnród Éireann to free travel users is an operational matter for the company and I have therefore forwarded the Deputy's question to the Iarnród Éireann for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.