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, nor decision making on fares. It is the National Transport Authority (NTA) that has responsibility for the regulation of fares charged to passengers in respect of public transport services, provided under public service obligation (PSO) contracts.
In light of the impact of COVID on commuter travelling patterns, with a potential move away from a regular 5-day commute, the NTA is evaluating the possibility of a new flexi taxsaver commuter ticket. My Department has held discussions with the NTA and also with the Department of Finance on this issue. The NTA is proceeding with the detailed technical work associated with the introduction of a more flexible Taxsaver product.
Further, from the beginning of April, Taxsaver fares on all subsidised public transport services are to be reduced by an average of 20 per cent. This is the first phase in the implementation of the programme to reduce public transport fares. The reduced Taxsaver fares apply to customers on all subsidised public-service obligation (PSO) public transport services, including those provided by Iarnród Éireann, Bus Éireann, Dublin Bus, Luas and Go-Ahead Ireland. Customers purchasing annual or monthly Taxsaver tickets in 2022 that are valid from the beginning of April will see an immediate 20 per cent reduction in the cost of their ticket.
In light of the Authority's responsibility in relation to Taxsaver area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question in relation to an update on the matter to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
