Varadkar: Public transport services 'worth the fare hike'
The Transport Minister Leo Varadkar is defending hikes to public transport fares, saying the quality of service is worth the increase.
From yesterday, prices on journeys on Dublin Bus, Bus Éireann, Irish Rail and the LUAS have risen by an average of 20 cent.
The National Transport Authority said the hikes are necessary to protect routes.
Minister Varadkar says the services provided are worth the fare increases.
He said: "Personally, I do think the services are worth the fare. To fill half a tank of petrol costs about €50 now, and yet you can travel anywhere in the Dublin area by bus, train or Luas for less than €40 a week.
"I can appreciate that while fares are going up, people don’t like to see that, but public transport is still highly subsidised in this country.
"If you are taking your car or using your private bus service, that isn't the case."
