07/11/2014

Sinn Féin Say Poor Being Unfairly Targeted By Fare Increases

A rise in the cost of public transport fares has been criticised for "deliberately targeting the poor and those least able to pay."

Sinn Féin's Dublin South West TD Seán Crowe was commenting on the announcement that public transport fares will be increased at the beginning of 2015.

Deputy Seán Crowe said: "No matter what spin or convoluted excuse is trotted out, the sad reality is that the new cash fare increases will hit the poor and those least able to pay these increases."

"Cash fares for Dublin Bus are going up by as much as 25c. This will mean for many that their weekly bus commute will cost a significant amount higher if paid in cash at the end of the week. This is happening at a time when wage increases are stagnant particularly for those on low incomes."

"While there are some savings for Leap card users there will also increases in shorter distance fares. Surely a 'sure fire way' not to improve our bus services is to make them less affordable to commuters."

(MH/CD)

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