426. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Transport for an update on work to encourage more employers to participate in the TaxSaver scheme and the cycle-to-work scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61809/26]

From the outset, it is important to highlight that both the TaxSaver and Cycle-to-Work Schemes are fiscal measures with demonstrated track records of influencing travel behaviour, improving transport network efficiency and ultimately facilitating emissions reductions. For these reasons, there are on-going collaborations between my Department and the Department of Finance through an Inter-Departmental Group established under the Moving Together Strategy, to identify opportunities to better align taxation policy with transport, climate and revenue sustainability objectives. That being said, in considering proposals to amend any tax expenditures, the Government must always be mindful of the public finances and the many demands on the Exchequer.

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to sustainable mobility, including public transport; however, 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 PSO contracts, including TaxSaver ticket offerings. In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded this aspect of 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.

With regard to the Cycle-to-Work Scheme, I understand that the adoption of the Scheme is very high across Ireland, particularly within medium/large companies and the public sector, and that most established employers either already run the Scheme or will readily set it up upon employee request. However, I recognise that the Cycle-to-Work Scheme is only available to those who are currently in employment and cannot be availed of by, for example, students, retirees or those outside employment. My Department is therefore continuing to examine additional measures which could be introduced to promote modal shift and encourage uptake of cycling across all demographics.

I understand that the Department of Finance intends to review the Scheme in the coming months; I look forward to contributing to this process to ensure that the Scheme continues to deliver on its core objectives of encouraging more employees to cycle to and from work or between workplaces, helping to promote healthier lifestyles, reducing traffic congestion, and lowering carbon emissions.