Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2026
336. Deputy Ciarán Ahern asked the Minister for Transport the total cost arising from the reduced 20% public transport fares to the public and the reduced 50% public transport to students and young people under 24 years of age nationwide; if he is considering making the reduction permanent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14811/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraImproving 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), as fare regulator for services provided under PSO contracts, plays a central role in achieving this.
While my Department sets the overall policy direction and funding framework for the delivery of public transport services nationwide, it is the NTA that have the statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally.
In this context, we secured an unprecedented allocation of €940 million for PSO services in Budget 2026, a significant 43% uplift in the allocation from Budget 2025. This allocation will ensure that existing public transport services can operate reliably and sustainably throughout the year in the face of growing passenger demand and increased operational costs. The 2026 allocation also maintains 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.
In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's query in relation to the total cost of these fare initiatives to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
