Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I share Deputy Sullivan's concern about how long the free transport measure is taking. At my request, my officials have spoken with the Dublin Regional Homeless Executive, DRHE, to get more information on why it is taking so long to implement the scheme. They are anxious, I understand, to implement it as soon as possible. There are serious practical and logistical issues that must be worked out in conjunction with the National Transport Authority so the scheme can be rolled out fairly and safely. They hope to pilot the scheme from mid to late January for about four weeks and then implement it in full. This is to ensure that all concerns around identity, danger of fraud and misuse, and user friendliness for those eligible can be addressed. I can share a bit more information in that regard, as well as a reply to the Deputy's second question, the next time I take to my feet.

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