Skip to main content
Normal View

Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 22 Nov 1988

Vol. 384 No. 5

Written Answers. - European Senior Citizen Pass.

22.

asked the Minister for Social Welfare the steps he has taken at EC level to respond to a Council decision which called for the introduction of a European senior citizen pass; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

There is as yet no formal EC Council decision calling for the introduction of a European senior citizen pass. I understand that a proposal for a Council decision in this matter is under consideration at EC Commission level but firm proposals have not emerged as yet. I must, therefore, await the proposals of the EC Commission before I can assess what implications they may have for my Department.

We in Ireland already have a senior citizen's pass which is used as a free travel pass. I would welcome and support any developments at European Community level which would make it easier for our senior citizens to participate in cultural and recreational events across Europe at reduced rates. It could also be used to provide certain facilities like cheap or free travel on public transport and reduced hotel charges. I would see such developments as a natural component of the social dimension of the Single European Act.

Top
Share