Cheaper fares for commuters in two Kildare towns

In a huge win for those in Kildare availing of Iarnród Éireann's services, cheaper train fares are on the way.

Following numerous calls for change, the implementation of Fairer Fares will see commuter fares come down by 45 per cent for Newbridge and 37 per cent for Kildare town, and will take effect from April 28, 2025.

The Fairer Fares scheme is part of the National Transport Authority’s (NTA) 2024 Fares Determination, which aims to make public transport pricing fairer and simpler across Ireland.

One notable feature of the 2024 update is the expansion of the Dublin Commuter Zone, which now extends up to 50 kilometres (km) from Dublin City Centre, and includes areas such as Newbridge, Kildare town, Enfield, Rathdrum and Drogheda.

The updated fare structure also maintains key fare reductions introduced in recent years, including: the €2 90-minute city fare; a 20 per cent cost-of-living reduction across PSO services; and 50 per cent discounts for young adult Leap Card holders.

These changes are part of Phase 2 of the NTA’s Fares Determination rollout and are expected to be fully in place by the end of April 2025.

‘WELL OVERDUE’

Welcoming the news, Fianna Fáil Senator Fiona O'Loughlin said: "This is fantastic news for Newbridge and Kildare town, it is well overdue.

"Cheaper fares will mean real savings for commuters, putting more money back in people’s pockets at a time when the cost of living continues to bite."

She continued: "In practical terms, this means Kildare commuters will benefit from lower fares, new Leap Card savings, and better value for regular travel into Dublin and surrounding areas.

"The move reflects Kildare’s growing role as a key commuter hub supplying workers to the capital and beyond.

"As Kildare continues to grow, it’s vital that national transport policy reflects the reality on the ground."

"This is the first step in making life a little easier for local commuters, and I’ll keep working to ensure Kildare’s voice is heard loud and clear at the decision-making table," Senator O'Loughlin concluded.

Another local representative who welcomed the news was Social Democrats Cllr Chris Pender, who said: "This is a significant step forward for fairer public transport fares in our communities

"For too long, commuters in Newbridge and Kildare town have faced unfair discrepancies in ticket pricing compared to areas much closer to Dublin; the introduction of the Dublin Commuter Zone, and [improved] Leap Card integration, will provide much-needed financial relief and flexibility for daily commuters."

He also praised the Extend the Short Hop Zone campaign, which was led by Jennifer Caffrey and the Newbridge Community Development team, and said that the groups's "tireless efforts played a crucial role" in securing these changes.

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