Darren O'Rourke
Ceist:177. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport the estimated increase in demand if public transport fares were abolished; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8859/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraDáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 February 2022
177. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport the estimated increase in demand if public transport fares were abolished; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8859/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra178. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport if he is considering introducing a €365 annual public transport ticket; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8860/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 177 and 178 together.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport, nor decisions on fares. It is the National Transport Authority (NTA) that has responsibility for the regulation of fares charged to passengers in respect of public transport services, provided under public service obligation (PSO) contracts
Any assessment of a proposed change to public transport fare structures would be a matter for the NTA to consider in the first instance along with the estimated increase in demand for public transport services if fares were abolished. Therefore, in light of the Authority’s responsibility in this area I have forwarded the Deputy's specific questions to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.