Keira Keogh (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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154. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the measures being considered to mitigate the impact of fare increases on students and young adults following the recent fare zone restructuring; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51551/25]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
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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 NTA published its National Fares Strategy in 2023 which aims to deliver a fairer, simpler, and more consistent fare system across the public transport network by aligning fares with distance travelled.

In line with this strategy, the NTA introduced new fare zones in January 2024: the Dublin City Zone within 25km of the city centre; and the Dublin Commuter Zone within 50km.

The zones were informed by future transport plans such as DART+ and ticket sales data. The fare changes were implemented in two phases, with Phase 2 completed in June 2025. The new zonal structure aims to reduce fare disparities, especially in outer commuter towns.

Budget 2025 also included funding for the continuation of public transport fare initiatives including the 90-minute fare, the Young Adult (YAC)/Student Leap Card, and the discounted fares on PSO services.

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