458. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Transport the total amount of funding provided for PSO transport services for each of the years 2023 to 2025 and to date in 2026, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56562/26]

Improving 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.

Sustained and increasing investment in the PSO programme over the last few years has led to record public transport usage in 2025, with passenger numbers more than 23% above pre-Covid levels, alongside expanded network coverage connecting over 240 towns and villages.

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 ensures 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 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.

As the Deputy has requested, I have provided the total amount of funding provided for PSO transport services for each of the years 2023 to 2025 and  2026 in tabular form.