Written answer
Public Transport
The Minister referred fare-free cost estimates to the NTA, noting existing discounts and that further measures depend on funding priorities.
245. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Transport to estimate the cost of eliminating public transport fares for student Leap Card holders and for under-25 Leap Card holders; and the cost of eliminating fares for both together. [64963/26]
Comment on this
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.
The Young Adult Card (YAC) 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 in Ireland remain comparatively low due to a range of targeted measures, including the YAC the 90?minute fare and free travel for those aged above 66 or those under in receipt of qualifying payments, plus for children under the age of nine. 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.
Any further enhancement to these initiatives would need to be considered through the annual Estimates process, taking account of competing funding demands and wider public transport priorities.
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.
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.