Residents of outlying islands will not be affected by ferry fare increases on Sundays and public holidays, the Transport Department says.

Responding to the "Alliance for objection against higher outlying ferry fares on holidays" today, the department noted that residents can pay the usual weekday fare for ferry services on Sundays and public holidays by using a monthly ticket or a day-return ticket which costs the same as the weekday fare.

In a statement, the department acknowledged the concerns the Alliance raised on the issue.

It has arranged a meeting with the Alliance and the New World First Ferry Services in March to discuss fare matters on the relevant outlying islands ferry services.

NWFF has been operating the Peng Chau, Mui Wo and Cheung Chau routes since January 15, 2000 and now operates nine licensed ferry services.

To attract more holiday makers to Peng Chau, Mui Wo and Cheung Chau on Sundays and holidays, the company introduced a concessionary scheme on November 9 last year.

Any two passengers together taking fast ferries to and from Peng Chau, Mui Wo or Cheung Chau during Sundays and holidays can each enjoy a 25% discount.