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.
Public transport fares remain comparatively low due to the targeted measures introduced in recent years, including the introduction of the 90 minute fare and YAC, as part of the NTA's National Fares Strategy. It is important to note there has been no general fare increase since before the Covid-19 pandemic. This has been maintained despite rising operational costs, and my Department supports measures in line with the commitment in the Programme for Government to keeping fares low and affordable.
In light of the NTA's responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.