353. Deputy James Geoghegan asked the Minister for Transport the estimated cost of providing free public transport on bus services for U18s, U22s and U25s in Budget 2027. [54901/26]

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 such as free travel for all children up to the age of 9, reduced fares for the Young Adult Card and 90-minute fare, all as part of the NTA's National Fares Strategy. Under this Strategy changes introduced in future determinations will reflect a more consistent and equitable approach, and one that is easier to understand for customers. 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.

The Young Adult Card provides individuals aged 19 to 25 with 50% off adult fares across the entire Transport for Ireland (TFI) network and for participating commercial operators. This discount is applied irrespective of employment or educational status. Those in full-time education aged 16-18 or 26 and above may access an equivalent discount through the Student Leap Card.

Public transport fares remain comparatively low in Ireland. 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, ensuring that we can maintain a well-funded reliable system and deliver greater long term benefit rather than reducing fares to unsustainable levels.

The Government remains fully committed to improving the affordability and accessibility of public transport. The current discounted fare initiatives are designed to help with the cost of living for young people, students and children, encouraging them to start using public transport from an early age, by offering them more affordable and flexible travel options.

The fare initiatives and eligibility criteria are kept under ongoing review by the Department and the National Transport Authority, in their role as fare regulator. Any further enhancement would need to be considered through the annual Estimates process, taking account of competing funding demands and wider public transport priorities.

In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, and in order to provide the estimated costs of measures as requested, 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.