Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

107. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to make public transport more affordable and accessible for other age groups particularly in view of changed travel patterns including the introduction of a three day commuter ticket option; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53494/21]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

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.

In light of the NTA's responsibility in the matter raised by the Deputy, I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.

James O'Connor (Cork East, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

108. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will consider making provision for free travel pass holders to guarantee them seats on Expressway and Intercity services especially for those persons who are not computer literate and would not be able to pre-book their seats; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53660/21]

James O'Connor (Cork East, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

122. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on the requirement of free travel pass holders to pre-book their seats for Expressway and Intercity services for those persons who are not computer literate.; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53661/21]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 108 and 122 together.

As Minister for Transport, I am responsible for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. However, I am not involved in day-to-day operational matters. The Free Travel Scheme is a non-statutory scheme administered by the Department of Social Protection.

The query raised appears to relate to Bus Éireann's commercial service, Expressway, and intercity rail services operated by Irish Rail.

In view of the above, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to both companies for direct reply.

Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.