Mairead Farrell (Galway West, Sinn Fein)
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236. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if his attention has been drawn to the anomaly whereby 18-year-old students in some instances cannot qualify for the 50% fare reduction due to their being too young to apply for the young adult card for those aged 19 to 23 years, meaning that they have to purchase a full adult ticket; if his Department has made contact with the private bus operators that are awaiting action by his Department to resolve this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51400/22]

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. 

The Young Adult Card (YAC) was initially introduced on PSO services in May. Following extensive engagement between my Department, the NTA, and representatives from the commercial bus sector the initiative was broadened to include participating Commercial Bus Operators (CBOs) on the 4th of September. As a result, holders of a YAC or Student Leap Card can now avail of the 50% fare discount on both PSO and CBO services.

In relation to the issue of eligibility requirements for the YAC, I am pleased to advise the Deputy that the NTA has informed me that the widening of the age of eligibility for Student Leap Cards to include third level students aged 16, 17 and 18 in the YAC scheme has gone live with effect from last Thursday 13th October.