481. Deputy Maurice Quinlivan asked the Minister for Transport if the TFI 90-minute fare scheme in Cork, allowing adults to transfer between unlimited Bus Éireann city services within 90 minutes for a flat €1.70 fare, will be rolled out in other cities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56665/26]

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.

As you will be aware, the NTA recently announced that from Monday 20 July passengers using Bus Éireann’s Cork TFI city bus services will benefit from faster boarding times and a simplified 90-minute fare. This means that for the first time, passengers will be able to catch any bus in the city and transfer between buses in Cork city as often as they need within 90 minutes, all for a single fare of €1.70.

The introduction of new on-board ticket validators also means passengers can simply tap their Leap Card and go, reducing boarding times, keeping services moving, and improving the overall reliability and punctuality of Cork city bus services.

As a result, passengers will enjoy greater flexibility and will also benefit from fare capping, which wasn’t previously available for passengers in Cork.

I wish to reassure the Deputy that 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. The National Transport Authority (NTA), which regulates fares for services provided under Public Service Obligation (PSO) contracts, plays a central role in achieving this.

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.