Written answer
Public Transport
The Minister said the NTA’s January 2027 fare changes balance affordability with funding service expansion and standardising fares. Adult fares will rise, while many child fares will fall and young adult discounts remain; he referred detailed queries on affordability analysis and consultation to the NTA.
219. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Transport the measures he is taking to address the concerns that the recently announced rise in public transport fares will discourage the use of public transport; the measures he is taking to ensure that the use of public transport is affordable; and the engagements he had with the NTA on the matter. [64566/26]
Comment on this
221. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Transport the work that has been carried out by his Department to analyse the impact of the recently announced fare increase on the affordability of public transport; if he will publish this analysis; and to outline a date for publication. [64568/26]
Comment on this
222. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Transport his views on whether the recently announced increase in public transport fares is justified; and if he will consider reversing this increase and ensure that it does not go ahead in January 2027. [64567/26]
Comment on this
I propose to take Questions Nos. 219, 221 and 222 together.
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.
In this regard on 3 September 2026, the National Transport Authority (NTA) announced changes to the national fare structure for PSO services, effective from January 2027. These changes are the first major revision since 2018 forming part of the NTA’s National Fare Strategy and support the continued expansion and improvement of public transport, while maintaining affordability. The NTA has identified approximately 140 new service initiatives and capacity enhancements as part of its 2027 budget submission to the Department of Transport. Subject to the outcome of the annual estimates process, this will represent the biggest in year and year-on-year enhancement of services in many years. They also represent an important step towards standardising fares nationwide, in line with the National Fare Strategy published in 2023.
While adult fares will increase, many child fares will be reduced and young adult fares will remain discounted at 50%, helping to improve affordability for families and young people. The Free Travel Scheme, which is run separately by the Department for Social Protection, will continue for everyone eligible.
Public transport requires ongoing investment to maintain, improve and expand services. Fare revenue helps fund these measures, making it important to balance affordability with inflationary increases. The proposed fare changes support the Government's commitment to continued network growth, service enhancements and climate objectives by funding future improvements, while keeping public transport competitive and affordable.
In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's request to the NTA for further information and direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.