Violet-Anne Wynne (Clare, Independent)
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305.To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the reason he has not rolled out the 90-minute Leap card travel window to counties outside of Dublin, such as County Clare, which has recently had its 343 bus route cut into two requiring customers to pay twice; if he will consider introducing this measure in Budget 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter.[35808/24]

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.

As the Deputy will be aware, funding was provided under Budget 2024 for the continuation of the 20% average fare reduction on PSO services, and for an extension of the upper limit of the YAC from 23 to 25 years of age. Public transport fare initiatives will form part of my discussions with the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform in the context of Budget 2025 negotiations.

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