Gerald Nash (Louth, Labour)
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127. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the status of his latest discussions with the NTA with a view to obtaining approval for the implementation of a more flexible taxsaver product; his views on whether a flexible taxsaver product is required in view of a flexible return to offices in the coming months; the status of his discussion with the Department of Finance regarding this proposal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44489/21]

Gerald Nash (Louth, Labour)
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128. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the estimated cost to the Exchequer of the introduction of a propose flexible taxsaver product to account for the shift to blended working; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44500/21]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 127 and 128 together.

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport, nor decisions on fares.

Following the establishment of the National Transport Authority (NTA) in December 2009, the NTA has responsibility for the regulation of fares charged to passengers in respect of public transport services, provided under public service obligation (PSO) contracts.

In relation to the possible introduction of alternative tax saver commuter ticket options following the Covid pandemic, the NTA is currently evaluating such a proposal and my Department has commenced discussions with the NTA and the Department of Finance on the matter. The NTA is proceeding with the detailed technical work associated with introduction of a more flexible Taxsaver product, whilst discussions with the Department of Finance continue.

I have also forwarded the Deputy's questions to the NTA for direct reply in relation to the issues raised, including the estimated cost of the introduction of a more flexible Taxsaver product. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.