To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, further to the Young Persons' Free Bus Travel Scheme in Scotland, whether the Minister plans to introduce a similar scheme to incentivise sustainable travel.

I recognise that children and young people use public transport to access education, training, employment and to maintain social connections. My Department already supports half fare travel on public transport services in Northern Ireland for those aged 5-16 under the Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme. Other discounted tickets are available for young people. The Translink y-link card is a smart card for all 16-23 years olds using Translink services within Northern Ireland. This card offers 1/3 off Translink bus and rail travel in Northern Ireland and up to 50% off the Enterprise tickets. Also available is the 24+ Student Railcard for those in full time education which enables those over the age of 24 to receive up to 1/3 off rail fares. I recognise that these discounts do not match those being offered in Scotland under the Young Person’s Free Travel Bus Scheme but concessions are available on both bus and rail services here.

I very much recognise the multiple benefits delivered by the Concessionary Fares Scheme and would like to see it expanded but my ambition is limited by the level of funding made available to me.