Thomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent)
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90. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will consider extending eligibility for the Leap card scheme to bus operators who run cross-border services, especially those servicing third level institutions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47077/22]

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.

As the Deputy is aware the Young Adult Card (YAC) was introduced on PSO services on the 9th of May and then extended to participating commercial bus operators on the 4th of September. This will not only promote modal shift in the transport sector among this age group but should also contribute towards a reduced reliance on private transport with associated benefit of transport emission savings.

In light of the Authority's responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question in relation to extending eligibility for the Leap card scheme to bus operators who run cross-border services, especially those servicing third level institutions, to the Authority for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.