Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 September 2022
305. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport the estimated cost of introducing a reduced €9 public transport ticket serving buses, trains and Luas, similar to the scheme introduced in Germany in summer 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44145/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra306. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Minister for Transport the estimated cost of capping public transport fares at either €9 a month or €10 a month for the remainder of 2022 from October to December; the estimated full-year cost of each in 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44229/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 305 and 306 together.
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.
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 would be a matter for the NTA to consider in the first instance.
In light of the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have forwarded the Deputies questions in relation to the cost of the possible introduction of a price initiative for customers similar to that offered in Germany, to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
