Irish Rail fares to rise next month

Irish Rail ticket prices are to rise by an average of 10 per cent on short commuter services, the operator has announced.

Single, return and season tickets are to increase by around three per cent on intercity and long-distance services of 41km or more, while fares for shorter distances are set to rise by an average of 10 per cent.

Iarnród Éireann will implement the fare increases from December 1, with the exception of monthly season tickets which will be increased from January 1, 2013.

The National Transport Authority approved the increases for Iarnród Éireann on the basis that “having considered all of the respective costs and revenues and relevant changes therein, that the determined increases are warranted in order that a sufficient level of service can continue to be provided.

“The fare changes represent an appropriate balance between a contribution on the part of the operator in continuing to increase efficiency and reduce costs, and the implementation of increased fares, both being important elements that contribute towards maintaining the integrity of the network of public transport services.”