Gerald Nash (Louth, Labour)
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199.To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on a policy matter raised with the National Transport Authority (NTA) (details supplied) regarding the delayed implementation of the proposed new fare model within the Dublin commuter zone; his plans to meet to with the NTA to discuss an interim solution to ensure the reduction of commuter fares this autumn 2024, as originally scheduled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31612/24]

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 April 2023, the National Transport Authority published a new National Fares Strategy, aimed at delivering more consistent and equitable fares. Subsequently, in January 2024, the NTA published its fare determination which introduced specific changes to fares, including the formalisation of new ‘Dublin City’ and ‘Dublin Commuter’ Zone boundaries, simplified Leap capping, as well as changes to some Intercity Rail and town bus fares. The first phase of the fare determination was implemented on the 23rd of June.

Phase 2 will involve the implementation of the new Dublin City and Dublin Commuter Zones, a significant reduction in Leap Card multimodal caps, and the introduction of Leap travel credit at all Dublin Commuter Zone rail stations.

In light of the NTA's responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question regarding the implementation of Phase 2 to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.