Taoiseach to raise Meath bus fare increases with Minister following intervention
Bus fare increases in parts of Meath are set to be raised directly with the Minister for Transport, following criticism in the Dáil from local Fianna Fáil TD Aisling Dempsey.
Deputy Dempsey secured a commitment from Taoiseach Micheál Martin to address the fare hikes, which have hit towns like Navan and Athboy despite the absence of rail alternatives.
Speaking in the Dáil chamber, Deputy Dempsey said: “Commuters across Meath West welcomed the announcement of new commuter fare zones, but were left disappointed in April when it applied only to rail fares. That disappointment deepened in recent weeks with the bus fare changes.”
“In my hometown of Trim, the fare reduction was minimal, while towns like Navan and Athboy actually saw increases. The rationale offered was that fares now cover both bus and rail, but as we know, these towns have no rail service. It’s only fair that areas without rail access, like Navan and Athboy, be given an exception and see their bus fares reduced.”
The new fares structure came into effect on Monday. Among the most affected routes are the single Leap fare from Navan to Dublin, which will rise from €5.60 to €6.30, and the fare from Athboy to Dublin that will increase from €7.70 to €8.10.
The Meath West TD added: “Meath has some of the longest commutes in the country, with most people relying on cars. We need meaningful incentives to shift towards public transport. With our population and regional importance growing, it’s vital that national infrastructure plans reflect this reality.”
In response, the Taoiseach acknowledged her concerns and the region’s importance. He said: “Your point is well made, especially in the context of our climate targets. While implementing changes may be challenging, Navan doesn’t yet have a rail line, though we are committed to delivering it, and work is underway. I will raise this issue with the Minister for Transport. I understand the motivation behind your proposal, and I agree Meath plays a major role as a commuter county.”
Deputy Dempsey welcomed the Taoiseach’s pledge, saying she looks forward to working toward “a fair, effective solution for Meath commuters” and ensuring that “no community is left behind.”