Written Answers Nos. 199-200
199. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Transport his views on a policy matter raised with the National Transport Authority (NTA) (details supplied) regarding the delayed implementation of the proposed new fare model within the Dublin commuter zone; his plans to meet to with the NTA to discuss an interim solution to ensure the reduction of commuter fares this autumn 2024, as originally scheduled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31612/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs 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.
In April 2023, the National Transport Authority published a new National Fares Strategy, aimed at delivering more consistent and equitable fares. Subsequently, in January 2024, the NTA published its fare determination which introduced specific changes to fares, including the formalisation of new ‘Dublin City’ and ‘Dublin Commuter’ Zone boundaries, simplified Leap capping, as well as changes to some Intercity Rail and town bus fares. The first phase of the fare determination was implemented on the 23rd of June.
Phase 2 will involve the implementation of the new Dublin City and Dublin Commuter Zones, a significant reduction in Leap Card multimodal caps, and the introduction of Leap travel credit at all Dublin Commuter Zone rail stations.
In light of the NTA's responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question regarding the implementation of Phase 2 to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
200. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Transport the funding required to fully implement the remaining phases of the BusConnects programme within Dublin. [31630/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy may be aware, BusConnects Dublin is a transformative programme of investment in the existing bus system providing better bus services to more people. The Programme brings together all areas of bus investment identified in the Greater Dublin Area Transport Strategy including enhanced and new bus infrastructure, service enhancements such as higher frequencies and new routes serving a wider catchment.
Following approval of the Liffey Valley, Clongriffin, Ballymun/Finglas and Belfield/Blackrock Core Bus Corridors by An Bord Pleanála, the National Transport Authority (NTA) have also recently received decisions on the Swords and Blanchardstown Corridors. However, legal proceedings are ongoing for the Clongriffin and Belfield/Blackrock schemes.
The total estimated cost at the time of Government approval in 2022 of implementing BusConnects Dublin ranged from approximately €3.4 billion to €4.2 billion including VAT. The final budget for BusConnects Dublin will not be set until after the planning process and completion of tendering and procurement for various aspects of the programme.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The NTA has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including BusConnects Dublin.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
