Age Action has responded to media reports this morning that State transport providers are seeking restrictions on the operation of the free travel scheme.
Justin Moran, Head of Advocacy and Communications at Age Action, said: “Peak-time restrictions on the travel pass were done away with a decade ago.
“A key reason for this is that many older people are entirely dependent on their travel pass to get to hospital and medical appointments.
“The HSE made it clear at the time that restricting older people from using the pass during peak travel times made it difficult to schedule appointments.
“A national survey of 500 older people carried out by Age Action last year found that 57 per cent said they used their travel pass to attend health or medical appointments. Any new restrictions would create additional barriers for older people to access healthcare.”
Funding stagnant
Age Action welcomed this morning’s restatement of the Government’s position that the scheme “will not be undermined in any way”.
Justin Moran continued: “Hundreds of thousands of older people will be worried at this morning’s report suggesting another threat to the free travel scheme.
“The commitment from Minister Burton to retain and protect the scheme is welcome, but additional funding is needed to secure its future.
“More than a hundred thousand people have received a free travel pass since 2010 but funding levels have largely remained stagnant.
“The Government can alleviate pressure on the scheme and demonstrate its commitment to its long-term survival by increasing the funding available to the free travel scheme in October’s budget.
“We would also urge the Government to publish the review of the scheme as soon as possible. Publication of the review would give some certainty on how the transport needs of older people will be addressed in the coming years.”
