No time restrictions on free travel for elderly – Daly

Minister for Older People, Jim Daly, has today confirmed that senior citizens who avail of the free travel scheme will not face time restrictions.

Speaking today, Minister Daly confirmed that the free travel scheme currently in place for those in receipt of a state pension will not change.

“Despite recent comments, I can confirm that there will be no change to the free travel scheme. This scheme is incredibly important to elderly people and plays a vital role in rural Ireland.

“The free travel scheme is an important cog in the services this Government provides to older people in our communities and as the Minister with responsibility, I will ensure that no regressive change is made to the scheme.

“Whether it’s the use of a local bus from rural areas into the nearest village, or availing of the services between cities, the free travel scheme for Older People is extremely important.

“I was glad to hear my colleague, the Minister for Public Expenditure Paschal Donohoe, state ‘the Government made it a priority not to change the scheme and as our economy is now in a period of sustainable growth, this government has no aspirations to change this important scheme.’

“I welcome Minister Donohoe’s confirmation of this,” Minister Daly said.

ENDS