Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 September 2026
289. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Transport if he will engage with the National Transport Authority to review the proposed public transport fare increases due to take effect from 2027, particularly in light of concerns regarding affordability, the impact on rural commuters in County Kerry, and the potential effect on public transport usage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [68608/26]
View answerAs 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.
On 3rd September 2026, the National Transport Authority (NTA) announced changes to the national fare structure for PSO services, effective from January 2027. These changes are the first major revision since 2018 forming part of the NTA’s National Fare Strategy. While adult fares will increase, many child fares will be reduced and young adult fares will remain discounted at 50%, helping to improve affordability for families and young people. The Free Travel Scheme, which is run separately by the Department for Social Protection, will continue for everyone eligible
The NTA has identified approximately 140 new service initiatives and capacity enhancements as part of its 2027 budget submission to the Department of Transport. Subject to the outcome of the annual estimates process, this represents the biggest enhancement of services in many years.
The adjustments to fares are required to help offset the cost increases in recent years, improve fare revenue recovery and ensure the sustainability of the PSO funding while ensuring public transport is affordable and accessible for commuters.
The additional revenue generated through this determination together with continued Exchequer investment, will help the NTA manage rising operating costs, improve capacity and reliability on existing services, and continue the rollout of new services. This includes investment in BusConnects in Dublin, Cork and other cities, the completion of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Programme, and continued development of commuter rail services to increase the connectivity outside our major cities and towns. Within its allocated resources, the NTA will continue to prioritise operational enhancements, such as increased frequency or capacity improvements, where possible.
Additionally, as Minister for Transport, I secured a record €940m public service obligation (PSO) funding for 2026, a 43% uplift on 2025, to ensure the consolidation of the service improvements made in recent years, and in preparation for further planned expansion and enhancements.
Public transport requires this ongoing investment to maintain, improve and expand services. Fare revenue helps fund these measures, making it important to balance affordability with inflationary increases. The proposed fare changes support the Government's commitment to continued network growth, service enhancements and climate objectives by funding future improvements, while keeping public transport competitive and affordable.
In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's request to the NTA for further information and direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
