Hard-pressed commuters facing ticket price increase

Commuters using the NX Navan bus service are facing fare hikes from the end of next month. The new frequent service was introduced last September to serve the large number of commuters in the Johnstown area of Navan, following a review of services along the M3 corridor.

The cost of a day return ticket is currently €15, and was due to rise to €20 from the end of May but Bus Eireann has again postponed the price increase for another month.
Bus Éireann had upped the fare to €20 in March claiming the €15 fare was a promotional introductory fare for six months from September but rowed back on the move following public outcry.
However, it now plans to proceed with the fare hike from the end of June.

A Bus Éireann spokesperson said: "It has been decided to extend the introductory fare of €15 until the end of June 2018.  Any change in this fare will be fully communicated to customers in advance."

Bus Eireann is advising passengers to use leap cards to avail of the best value fares. 
“Best value fares are always available using your Leap Card. Customers using their Leap Cards can avail of two single journeys at €7 each – a cheaper return journey than the current cash fare. 
“Customers can see information on availing of a Leap Card at www.leapcard.ie.”
Local councillor Sinead Burke said commuters need to be aware of the increase saying prices will go up by approximately 20 per cent.
“Bus Éireann tried this before earlier in the year but due to public outcry it was brought back to it's original price of €15 for a day return,” said Cllr Burke.

“Commuters need to be aware that this increase is coming. The only way to avoid it is to register for a Leap Card. By doing this you access prices 20 per cent lower than cash prices. 
“This card is all well and good if you are a regular bus user, however for those who only occasionally use the service, they are being penalised unfairly. Navan has one of the highest rates of commuters in the country.
“We still don't have a rail service and no notion of it coming anytime soon so bus users are being exploited with these price hikes. Buyer Beware, register for your Leap Card now.”