Written answers

Wednesday, 18 January 2023

Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport

School Transport

Photo of Patrick CostelloPatrick Costello (Dublin South Central, Green Party)
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260. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will work with the National Transport Authority, Dublin Bus and other relevant parties to develop a plan for free public transport for school children, as exists in Germany and Switzerland, to encourage the shift from private to public transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1687/23]

Photo of Eamon RyanEamon 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 PSO programme represents a significant expenditure of taxpayers' money, and funding has increased in recent years to cater for additional services and growing capacity. Any assessment of a proposed change to public transport fare structures would be a matter for the NTA to consider in the first instance.

In light of the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have forwarded the Deputy's question in relation to free public transport for school children, to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.

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