Max HeyraudA new proposal from the National Youth Council of Ireland would remove fares for everyone aged 25 and under, as rising living costs put pressure on young people across the country.
The National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI) has called on the Government to introduce free public transport for everyone aged 25 and under, arguing that transport costs are adding to the financial pressure already facing young adults. The proposal forms part of the council’s pre-Budget submission and comes as the cost of living, rent and access to affordable housing remain major concerns for younger people.
At present, people aged 19 to 25 can access discounted fares through young adult or student Leap Cards on eligible services, generally reducing the cost of travel by 50%. The NYCI wants that discount replaced with completely free public transport for the age group.
According to polling cited by the NYCI, around seven in 10 young people surveyed are considering moving abroad. Nine in 10 said the cost of living had negatively affected them, with rent, accommodation, food, college costs and employment among the issues highlighted.
Luxembourg has introduced nationwide free public transport, while Scotland operates free bus travel for people under 22. Ireland already has experience with targeted fare reductions for younger passengers, meaning the proposed change would represent an expansion of an existing system rather than an entirely new approach.
