Despite numerous promises in recent years, hard-pressed Drogheda rail commuters are still waiting for fairer fares, and Deputy Ged Nash has been told that the wait is likely to extend into 2024.
Last April it was announced that Drogheda would be added to a new outer commuter zone. While this was not the short-hop zone that had been promised by government representatives, it was an improvement for Drogheda commuters who, Deputy Nash said, have been short-changed for too long.
The National Transport Authority has confirmed to Deputy Nash that the now overdue adjustments to fares in the region will kick in next year, and only if the Transport Minister can secure enough funding in next week’s Budget.
The NTA did confirm that it is their intention to introduce initial adjustments in early 2024, however they have stressed that this is dependent on operators being able to adjust their current ticketing infrastructure with any new fare structures.
Deputy Nash said; “Irish Rail management and the NTA need to focus now on getting the systems in place to make this long awaited change happen.
“It is disappointing that this long-promised and very necessary fare reduction is to be further delayed at a time when hard working people are already stretched. Expected fare reductions are sorely needed and it is unacceptable that the extortionate commuter fares from Drogheda to Dublin remain so high.
“I will continue to press the Government to ensure that proper allocation of resources, including the rollout by operators is done as soon as possible.”
