Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 March 2023
102. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Social Protection her engagement with an organisation (details supplied) in providing a free travel scheme to all persons with epilepsy; if a report on this matter, which is due for the first quarter of 2023, is on target for the end of the month; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15189/23]
View answer145. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will provide an update on her Department's review of the extension of the free travel scheme to people with epilepsy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15039/23]
View answer148. Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh asked the Minister for Social Protection the steps her Department is taking to improve access to the free travel scheme for people with epilepsy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15182/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 102, 145 and 148 together.
The Free Travel scheme provides free travel on the main public and private transport services for those eligible under the scheme. There are over one million customers with direct eligibility. The estimated expenditure on free travel in 2023 is €95 million.
It is important to note that, in general, access to a free travel pass for those aged under 66 is a secondary benefit linked to a person being in receipt of certain primary Social Protection payments such as Disability Allowance, Invalidity Pension, Carer’s Allowance, Blind Pension and Partial Capacity Benefit. As many illnesses or physical conditions have an impact ranging from mild to severe, entitlement to these social welfare schemes is not provided on the basis of a diagnosis but on the basis of the impact of that diagnosis on the individual concerned and in the case of Disability and Carer's allowance to an assessment of their means. In this way, resources can be targeted to people in most need.
I am aware of an ongoing campaign by Epilepsy Ireland. I fully recognise the issues and difficulties that can arise due to a person being diagnosed with epilepsy and who is unable to drive as a result of their condition.
I have met with representatives of Epilepsy Ireland to discuss its proposal in detail and following the meeting I asked my Department officials to examine the issues raised in relation to access to the Free Travel scheme.
My officials advise me that they are currently finalising the report and I expect to receive it shortly. Thereafter, I will carefully consider its contents and any recommendations that it may contain.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputies.
