Public transport fare reductions should be extended – Farrell

Dublin Fingal TD and Climate Action Spokesperson for Fine Gael, Alan Farrell, has called on the Government to extend public transport fare reductions in Budget 2023.

Deputy Farrell said, “In May, the Government introduced a 20% fare reduction across all Dublin Bus, Luas, Go-Ahead Ireland and Iarnród Éireann’s Commuter and DART journeys, which will last until the end of the year. I believe that this fare reduction should be extended beyond the end of 2022.

“These reduced fares not only assist passengers with the cost burden, but they also incentivise people to leave cars at home and avail of public transport, which in turn will help reduce the emissions in our transport sector.”

Deputy Farrell continued, “Proactive Government policies such as these should not be curtailed in a time of rising cost of living, and indeed when the Government have set out ambitious climate targets of reducing emissions by 51% by 2030 and to be carbon neutral by 2050.

“By maintaining the 20% fare reduction across the board, we will be building on other innovative and progressive approaches to public transport, such as the 50% fare reduction for young people aged between 19 – 24.”

Deputy Farrell added, “Empowering people to make climate conscious choices while also making it economically preferable, means that we all benefit.

“By extending fare reductions we can make our transport sector cleaner, cheaper and stronger.”