John Brady
Question:217. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Transport the estimated amount it would cost to extend the young adult travel card to 24-year-olds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36194/23]
View answerTuesday, 25 July 2023
Questions (217)
Written answers
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.
Firstly, I would like to clarify that participation in the YAC scheme was initially for 19 to 23 year olds inclusive, however, in October 2022 the YAC was further extended to include third levels students aged 16 to 18 years old.
The PSO programme represents a significant expenditure of taxpayers' money, and funding has increased in recent years to cater for additional services and growing capacity. Any assessment of a proposed change to public transport fare structures including the possible further widening of the age eligibility for the Young Adult Card (YAC) would be a matter for the NTA to consider in the first instance.
Therefore, in light of the NTA's responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question in relation to the estimated cost of extending the YAC to 24 year olds, to the NTA 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