Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 3 March 2022
2. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Transport if he will commission a study into the provision of free public transport that examines the costs and benefits of such a policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12313/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am very cognisant of the importance of incentivising greater use of our public transport services; however, I am not convinced that providing free public transport is the most balanced means of achieving this objective.
COVID gave us some insight into the level of funding that might be required in the absence of fare revenue. For example, in 2020, an additional €370 million was required to enable the continued operation of services due to the collapse of fare intake. In 2021, €659m was required to run PSO services, and this year we have allocated €538 million for the continuation of these essential services. Apportioning such significant levels of Exchequer resources to one goal would undoubtedly impact the State’s ability to support other worthy public services.
While free public transport is available in some European locations, I understand that results have varied. The intention is commendable - encouraging modal shift, reducing congestion, and capitalising on the associated environmental benefits. However, the Schemes can have unintended consequences, most noticeably a significant reduction in active travel. This is counter to our core Government goals of improving citizen’s health and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
While I might not agree that free transport provides a silver bullet solution - I do believe there is merit in incentivising fares when an appropriate balance can be struck. I am delighted to soon launch the Young Adult Card - allowing those aged between 19 and 23 to avail of an average 50% fare discount. Simultaneously, as part of the suite of measures aimed at tackling the increasing cost of living, we will also introduce an average 20% fare reduction for all PSO passengers
Further, the raft of fare initiatives being introduced this year, paired with the significant increase in investment in vehicles and infrastructure, will make public transport an overall more attractive proposition and support greater modal shift ultimately helping us reduce our transport emissions.
