Eoghan Murphy (Dublin Bay South, Fine Gael)
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26. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the effect the reduction in services and revenue of Dublin Bus has had on its finances to date in 2021 compared to 2020. [13747/21]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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The public transport system in Ireland has played an essential service role over the course of the pandemic, especially in carrying essential workers and others making necessary journeys. Several targeted Government Decisions made throughout the crisis, in addition to general supports such as the wage subsidy scheme, have provided much needed support to the sector, particularly the decisions to substantially increase the 2020 budget for the existing PSO system; and provide a higher-than-normal provision for PSO funding in the 2021 budget due to the ongoing impact of Covid-19 on the public transport sector. The additional operating costs and reduction in fare income experienced by public transport operators, including Dublin Bus, are being met through this increased PSO funding.

I have also referred the Deputy's question to Dublin Bus for direct reply in relation to impact of Covid-19 on company revenue. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.