Companion pass significant step to combat isolation – Roche

The introduction of the companion pass will help tackle social isolation and ensure older people across the country can travel on public transport with a friend or relative, said a Fine Gael TD.

Deputy Pete Roche said that all those aged 70 years or over in receipt of Free Travel will now have an entitlement to receive a Free Travel Companion.

“The introduction of the companion pass is hugely positive. If you’re coming up from the country for a day out in Dublin, you can take a friend with you. If you have to travel to a hospital or medical appointment, you can bring a family member along with you. This will make a real difference in so many people’s lives.

“Previously, you could only bring a spouse or partner. It’s now changed so that people can bring a friend, niece, nephew, or grandchild.  For many older people the ability to chose more freely who can travel with them could be the push they need to make their journey.

“Older people have worked hard all their lives, and we want to ensure that they can fully enjoy their retirement and travel wherever they want with a companion.

“Card holders can avail of the free trips on most Irish Rail, Bus Eireann, Dublin Bus, DART and Luas services.

“The companion pass will help combat loneliness and isolation and support older people to keep active so they can travel around the country for as long as they wish. This measure makes it a little easier for them to do so.

“Across the country over 480,000 people will benefit, with 26827 benefitting in my own county of Galway.

“This is an important measure brought forward by former Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys who wanted to tackle social isolation and ensure older people can feel safe and secure in their travel.

“This measure will be key to combatting isolation and will encourage older people to get on the bus, train or Luas and get out and about,” concluded Deputy Roche.