Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 July 2022
602. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will provide an update on her Department’s consideration of proposals regarding extending free travel eligibility for people with epilepsy who are unable to drive as a result of their condition; if these proposals will be considered in the context of the upcoming budget; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37240/22]
View answerThe free travel scheme provides free travel on the main public and private transport services for those eligible under the scheme. These include road, rail and ferry services provided by companies such as Bus Átha Cliath, Bus Éireann and Iarnród Éireann, as well as Luas and services provided by over 80 private transport operators. There are approximately 1,034,000 customers with direct eligibility. The estimated expenditure on free travel in 2022 is €95 million.
I am aware of an ongoing campaign by Epilepsy Ireland and recognise the issues and difficulties that can arise due to a person being diagnosed with epilepsy and who are unable to drive as a result of their condition. I have met with representatives of Epilepsy Ireland to discuss its proposal in detail.
Following the meeting, I asked my Department officials to examine the issues raised by Epilepsy Ireland. This work is still ongoing. Further engagement with Epilepsy Ireland will be arranged once this exploratory work has been concluded.
I will carefully consider all submissions in relation to proposals for the forthcoming Budget. The Government has not made any decisions in relation to measures to be introduced in Budget 2023. The Government will finalise its consideration of the Budget in the coming months having regard to all of its commitments. The outcome of this process will be announced on Budget Day.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
