Written answers
Tuesday, 12 February 2019
Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport
Public Transport Fares
Fiona O'Loughlin (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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641. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the status of his engagement on the proposed plans for free inter-rail travel across the EU for students including those over 18 years of age; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6964/19]
Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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The proposal for free InterRail across the EU referred to by the Deputy is a European Commission initiative, which was launched following a proposal from the European Parliament. I understand that just over 14,500 free travel passes have been allocated to 18-year-olds from across the European Union for travel in 2019.
The passes were allocated by means of an online competition and the successful applicants will be able to travel up to a maximum of 30 days and visit up to four different country destinations between April and October of this year.
The Commission is planning to launch the next application round in summer 2019. Specific dates and further information will be announced on the European Youth Portal in due course.
Declan Breathnach (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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642. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will consider allowing the use of Leap cards on rail and bus services to areas outside of the short hop zone in north County Dublin and County Louth in view of the fact that the short hop fare zone does not extend beyond Balbriggan going north from Dublin city; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Leap cards are accepted on private coach services to these areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6974/19]
Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the regulation of fares in relation to public passenger transport services. I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
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