Patrick Costello
Ceist:76. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Transport the total estimated cost of eliminating all public transport fares in rural areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14080/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 22 March 2023
Ceisteanna (76)
Freagraí scríofa
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 Deputy's question in relation to the total estimated cost of eliminating all public transport fares in rural areas, 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