To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) why Translink processes two single-journey tickets instead of a return journey ticket for passengers holding a Smart Pass; and (ii) whether there is additional cost to her Department by processing two single-journey fares for Smart Pass holders instead of a return ticket.

Since the inception of free travel under the Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme in 2002 it has been the case that SmartPass holders must obtain a single ticket for each leg of their journey by bus or train. This requirement is based on audit advice received by the Department and aims to minimise the risk of fraud or waste due to the return portion of a subsidised journey either being used by an ineligible passenger, or not used at all.

Return journey tickets offered by Translink are a discounted product to passengers as a commercial incentive. This is intended to encourage, and increase patronage. These discounted fares are not offered in conjunction with any other discounts – which includes the discounts offered to SmartPass holders.

Whilst reimbursing Translink on return tickets would reduce costs on the Concessionary Fares Budget, this must be balanced against the risk of fraud of offering this ticket type through the Scheme. To that end, my Department ensures that reimbursement to Translink for single journey concessionary travel is based on a “no better and no worse off” principle. That is Translink is no better or worse off for providing the journey undertaken through the Scheme.