Pa Daly
Ceist:198. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Transport if he has considered extending the young adult travel card to categories (details supplied) [51111/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 7 July 2026
Ceisteanna (198)
Freagraí scríofa
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.
Budget 2026 included funding for the continuation of public transport fare initiatives including the 90-minute fare and provision to maintain targeted fare initiatives such as the recently introduced free travel for all children up to the age of 9 and reduction in fares for Young Adult Cardholders for those aged 19-25, as part of the NTA's National Fares Strategy. In line with the Programme for Government we are committed to keeping fares low and affordable.
In this regard, public transport fares in Ireland remain comparatively low due to a range of targeted measures, including the Young Adult Card, the 90-minute fare and free travel for those aged above 66 or those under in receipt of qualifying payments, plus for children under the age of nine. While these initiatives have improved affordability and accessibility, they also increase reliance on subsidy, and fare revenue remains a vital part of maintaining a financially sustainable PSO model.
In line with international best practice and to bolster the State’s capacity to invest in service expansion, network improvements, and operational resilience, it is essential we prioritise a reinvestment of fare revenue, ensures that we can maintain a well-funded reliable system and deliver greater long term benefit rather than reducing fares to unsustainable levels.
As maintaining a stable funding base is essential to protect service levels, support future expansion, and to ensure public transport continues to meet the needs of passengers.
In light of the NTA's responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to them for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.