Public transport still cheaper option, insists Minister

Minister Alan Kelly says that despite fare increases public transport is still the cheapest option for commuters - as they avoid tolls, parking fees and fuel costs.

The Minister for Public Transport said that he does not believe new fare hikes will force people to use their cars.

The National Transport Authority yesterday granted price rises for Bus Éireann, Irish Rail, Dublin Bus and Luas services.

The increases, which are up to 10% in some cases, will being taking effect from November 1.

However, Minister Kelly says public transport will remain the most cost effective method for commuters.

"A car user coming into Dublin or commuting into Dublin, I mean obviously you could be dealing with tolls, you certainly could be dealing with parking and you'll certainly be dealing with congestion and fuel use, so I still see that public transport is by far the cheaper way to go about your business," he said.