Martin Kenny (Sligo-Leitrim, Sinn Fein)
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345. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the cost of a 30% fare reduction across all fare categories. [38415/23]

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. 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.

Therefore, in light of the NTA's responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's specific question in relation to the cost of a 30% fare reduction across all fare categories, to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.

Martin Kenny (Sligo-Leitrim, Sinn Fein)
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346. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the cost of a 50% fare reduction across student categories for those using intercity services across Bus Éireann and Irish Rail routes. [38416/23]

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. 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, a number of fare initiatives were introduced in 2022, including the Young Adult Card Scheme which provides a 50% reduction in public transport fares for those aged 19-23 and those in full-time third level education. Funding was secured under Budget 2023 for the continuation of the Young Adult Scheme. Individuals who are eligible for the Scheme can avail of the reduction on all PSO services, including intercity services across Bus Éireann and Irish Rail routes, and on participating commercial bus services.

In light of the NTA's responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question in relation to the cost of providing a 50% fare reduction across student categories for those using intercity services across Bus Éireann and Irish Rail routes to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.