Mick Wallace (Wexford, Independent)
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592. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to reduce public transport prices and expand bus and rail services to incentivise the use of public transport, particularly in view of the need to lower carbon emissions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3491/15]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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I have given a commitment to supporting a well-funded public transport system into the future, recognising the vital role it plays in our economy and society generally.  I committed to avoid further reductions in the Public Service Obligation (PSO) funding and ensured that in Budget 2015 PSO funding for bus and rail services was maintained at current levels.  This is the first time this has happened since 2008.  I also recently secured €110 million for public transport as part of the Supplementary Estimate for my Department.

Under the current capital plan the key priority with the level of resources available is to protect investments made to date and to maintain safety standards.  If additional funds become available under the next capital plan, which is not certain, there will be many competing projects from all transport modes in all regions.  Any additional funds will be prioritised for projects for which there is a clear need, which are affordable, have a sound business case and add value to existing infrastructure.

My Department is currently preparing the transport sector’s contribution to the National Mitigation Plan, which is being co-ordinated by the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government.  The obligation to prepare the Mitigation Plan is included in the Climate Action and Local Carbon Development Bill, which was published last Monday. Measures to promote the use of sustainable travel options, including public transport, are being considered in the context of this process.

Matters regarding public transport fares and services are matters for the National Transport Authority (NTA) and 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.