Newbridge based Senator Fiona O’Loughlin has received confirmation that the NTA are exploring solutions to equalise costs for commuters outside the short hop zones.
Senator O’Loughlin said, “I have long advocated for Newbridge be designated a short/medium hop zone to ensure that commuters in Newbridge and the surrounding areas are treated the same as those in Sallins, just a few kilometres up the road.”
“The disparity is price is not acceptable, and I have been liaising with the NTA and with my colleagues in Government to seek a solution to this issue for the people of Newbridge.”
“The NTA have today confirmed that they are examining what needs to be done to ensure that the distance-based fare outside the short hop zone is in line with the distance-based fare inside the short hop zone. Therefore, going some way to equalise fares for commuters. They are currently examining the proposal and plan to present to government for funding at the next budgetary cycle.”
Fiona concluded “This is a positive step forward in my view, but I do still feel that they need to go further. One key aspect of our ask is in relation to fare capping. Essentially where daily commuter fares are capped for commuters within the short hop zone when using a leap card. That does not apply to commuters outside the short hop zone. So while this is a welcome step, we need to see more action in my view to truly equalise fares for our commuters.”
-ENDS-