Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 April 2026
112. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Transport if he will abolish fares for public transport as is being done in other countries in response to the fuel crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31434/26]
View answerI fully recognise the considerable pressures currently affecting the public transport sector, arising from recent global developments and increased fuel costs. My Department will continue to monitor these impacts to determine whether they are temporary in nature or indicative of longer-term trends. In this context, Government has already stepped in with a significant package of supports, including approximately €120m specifically for the transport sector covering haulage, coach, TFI Local Link and school transport services.
Sustained and increasing investment in the PSO programme over the last few years has led to record public transport usage in 2025, with passenger numbers more than 23% above pre-Covid levels, alongside expanded network coverage connecting over 240 towns and villages.
Public transport fares in Ireland remain comparatively low due to a range of targeted measures, including the Young Adult Card, the 90-minute fare and free travel for those aged above 66 or those under in receipt of qualifying payments, plus for children under the age of nine. While these initiatives have improved affordability and accessibility, they also increase reliance on subsidy, and fare revenue remains a vital part of maintaining a financially sustainable PSO model.
In line with international best practice and to bolster the State’s capacity to invest in service expansion, network improvements, and operational resilience, it is essential we prioritise a reinvestment of fare revenue, ensures that we can maintain a well-funded reliable system and deliver greater long term benefit rather than reducing fares to unsustainable levels.
For this reason, the PSO Programme is kept under continuous review by my Department's PSO Oversight Group to ensure the network remains financially sustainable, resilient, and responsive to passenger needs amid rising costs and ongoing fuel price volatility. Therefore, maintaining a stable funding base is essential to protect service levels, support future expansion, and to ensure public transport continues to meet the needs of passengers.
