Emer Currie
Question:74. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Transport if he intends to increase public transport fares in 2026. [55600/25]
View answerWednesday, 15 October 2025
Questions (74)
Written answers
I wish to reassure the Deputy that improving the accessibility, reliability, and affordability of public transport, while ensuring the system remains well-funded and responsive to passenger needs, is a core priority under the Programme for Government. The National Transport Authority (NTA), which regulates fares for services provided under Public Service Obligation (PSO) contracts, plays a central role in achieving this.
As the Minister for Transport, my Department sets the overall policy direction and funding framework for the delivery of public transport services nationwide. The 2026 PSO funding allocation of €940m, provides a significant 43% uplift in the PSO allocation from 2025 to further support subsidised bus and rail services across Ireland, as well as maintaining targeted fares initiatives such as the recently introduced free travel for all children up to the age of 9 and the Young Adult Card for those aged 19-25, as part of the NTA's National Fares Strategy.
The National Fares Strategy, published in 2023, provides the framework for a fairer and more consistent fare system, aligning fares with distance travelled. As part of this, new fare zones were introduced in January 2024 – the Dublin City Zone (within 25km of the city centre) and the Dublin Commuter Zone (within 50km). These zones were informed by future transport plans such as DART+ and detailed ticketing data. The two-phase implementation concluded in June 2025 and aims to reduce fare disparities, particularly for passengers in commuter areas. This structured approach ensures the fare system remains transparent and equitable over time and supports future service improvements.