Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 March 2023
216. Deputy Michael Collins asked the Minister for Transport his views on a matter in relation to incentivising the private bus sector to involve itself in taking up potential routes (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11531/23]
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. However, unlike with PSO services, the National Transport Authority (NTA) do not set, monitor or regulate fares on services run by commercial operators.
The Leap+1 initiative was a once-off campaign by the NTA to encourage increased usage of public transport services by Leap card holders. I had no role in this initiative nor was it subsidised by any public/Exchequer funds.
Therefore, in light of the NTA's responsibility in this matter, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. The Deputy should advise my private office if he does not receive a response within ten working days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.
