Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 1 February 2023
81. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Transport the financial supports available for private bus operators and companies that provide coach-hire services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5124/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs 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 operation of public transport services nationally. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and is responsible for the licensing of public bus passenger services under the provisions of the Public Transport Regulation Act 2009.
Licensed bus and coach operators are an integral part of the overall public transport system particularly in areas which are not covered by existing public service bus and rail services. In recognition of this, throughout the COVID-19 pandemic the Government provided temporary financial supports for certain licensed commercial services with a view to protecting capacity across the public transport sector. In excess of €70m was provided to support the Commercial Bus Operators (CBOs), before the scheme ceased on the 30th of June 2022.
Further, in recognition of the importance of incentivising young people to use public transport, as part of Budgets 2022 and 2023, funding was provided for the young adult card (YAC) on both PSO and commercial services. This exciting initiative entitles anyone between the ages of 19 and 23, mature students and those aged 16-18 in third level education, to discounted travel costs of 50% across all services, including city, intercity and rural services.
The introduction of the YAC has resulted in a significant increase in public transport usage by this age cohort since it was introduced last year. This along with the temporary funding provided to the sector from 2020 through to June 2022 has assisted these operators in their recovery and will help promote continued growth in the sector.
Lastly, in relation to coach-hire services, the Deputy may wish to contact my colleague, the Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht, Catherine Martin T.D.
