Pa Daly (Kerry, Sinn Fein)

We all agree that there has been a large increase in the number of people using public transport, which is a good thing and can help to keep fares low. In response to an earlier question, Mr. Creegan mentioned the 20% cut, the €2 cap and the 50% reduction in fares. It was reported in a briefing note to the Minister, Deputy Chambers, in February that reduced fares are creating challenges in the wider roll-out of public transport. I note that Dr. Sean Sweeney, the director of MetroLink, indicated that the best case estimate for MetroLink delivery is €11.5 billion. According to other stakeholders, it will cost north of that figure. It is also estimated that there will be a 40% overrun, in general, in the delivery of rail projects. Are those cost overruns likely to have an impact on fares or can we keep fares at the level they are currently, given those challenges?