Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 June 2026
329. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Transport if he will request that the National Transport Authority examine the introduction of flexible or part-week commuter ticket products for hybrid workers who commute two or three days per week, particularly from commuter counties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45732/26]
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 their capacity as fare regulator, on the 27th of April 2023, the NTA published a new National Fares Strategy, and following this on the 18th of January 2024 they published the first of a series of Fares Determination related to the strategy. This has introduced a new, distance-based, zonal fare structure in the Greater Dublin Area. This move, aims to makes fares equitable, more consistent, and easier to understand, with significant reductions for many commuting from outer areas, aligning prices more closely with distance travelled.
The NTA also has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including ticketing and technology projects. Their Next Generation Ticketing (NGT) project is for an upgraded ticketing system to facilitate a variety of payment methods on public transport services, including bus services. Fundamental to this project is a transition to an ‘Account Based Ticketing’ scheme incorporating mobile and card-based payments.
The 2026 PSO funding allocation of €940m, provides a significant 43% uplift in the PSO allocation from 2025 to further support subsidised bus and rail services across Ireland, as well as maintaining 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.
Accordingly public transport fares in Ireland remain comparatively low due to a range of these targeted measures, and in addition the provision of free travel for those aged above 66 plus their companion, or those under in receipt of qualifying payments. These measures have been maintained despite rising operational costs, reflecting the Programme for Government commitment to keeping fares low and affordable.
Any future changes to fare structures, such as the introduction of new commuter fare products, greater integration with other public transport services, or alignment with wider fares reform initiatives, would be considered as part of the national fares policy process and subject to appropriate assessment and approval.
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.
