Michael Cahill (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

59. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has investigated the possibility of extending free travel to all children aged 18 years-of-age or under; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17423/26]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

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 2026 PSO funding allocation of €940m, provides a significant 43% uplift in the PSO allocation from 2025 to further support subsidised bus and rail services across Ireland, as well as maintaining targeted fares initiatives such as the recently introduced free travel for all children up to the age of 9 and the Young Adult Card for those aged 19-25, as part of the NTA's National Fares Strategy. The 2026 PSO allocation continues to support targeted fare initiatives but does not provide for any broadening of existing fare measures that are subject to Government decision.

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.