Steven Matthews (Wicklow, Green Party)
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192. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will review the parameters of the TaxSaver tickets for public transport in the context of employees working increasingly in hybrid set-ups as the current system benefits those who commute on a daily basis but not other work patterns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45616/22]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. The National Transport Authority (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 light of the impact of COVID on commuter travelling patterns, and a move away from a regular 5-day commute, the NTA is evaluating the possibility of a new taxsaver commuter ticket. My Department has held discussions with the NTA and also with the Department of Finance on this issue.

Therefore, in view of the Authority's responsibility in this area, 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.