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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 26 Jan 1994

Vol. 437 No. 6

Written Answers. - Free Travel Scheme.

Richard Bruton

Question:

235 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will adapt the terms of the free travel scheme to permit pensioners travelling to attend hospital appointments at early morning hours to use the bus service.

Time restrictions have been a feature of the free travel scheme since its inception in 1967. In the case of the city services provided by Bus Átha Cliath and Bus Éireann in Dublin, Cork and Limerick, free travel passes cannot be used between 7.00 a.m. and 9.45 a.m. and between 4.30 p.m. and 6.30 p.m. from Monday to Friday. These restrictions were imposed because the services concerned are under severe pressure from commuters travelling to or from work or school at that time of the morning or evening.

Time restrictions do not apply in the case of certain disabled or blind persons, mentally-handicapped persons or persons attending long-term rehabilitation courses.

With regard to pensioners wishing to avail of free travel to attend hospital appointments, it is understood that hospital authorities have agreed, for some time past, in the context of improved out-patient services, to schedule appointments in order to facilitate patients availing of free travel. Particular problems in individual cases could be taken up with the relevant hospital authorities.

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