asked the Minister for Defence the reason for the demand that the old IRA men who have been given free transport for national service should be requested to hand back their cards at the age of 70 and make use of an old age pension book; if he is aware that old IRA men look on this demand as a grave insult; and if he will have the clause removed from the circular.
Ceisteanna—Questions Oral Answers. - Old IRA Cards.
20.
There is no reason why the requirement that travel cards be returned at the age of 70 in certain instances should be regarded as an insult; it is in no way intended as such. When the free travel scheme for veterans of the War of Independence was introduced last year it was made clear in all relevant statements and Press advertisements that the scheme would not apply to persons eligible for similar concessions under the scheme for old age pensioners already in operation and administered by the Department of Social Welfare.
Payment to the appropriate transport organisations is made by my Department in respect of the provision of free travel facilities for veterans and by the Department of Social Welfare in respect of old age pensioners. When the holder of a travel card qualifies for an old age pension, his pension book entitles him to free travel under the Department of Social Welfare scheme. If his travel card were not withdrawn and cancelled, public funds would be liable for a duplicate payment in respect of the provision of travel facilities in his case.
Would the Minister say how that would happen in view of the fact that it is necessary to apply for such cards and if the cards were applied for to the Department of Social Welfare, how would there be a duplication of funds?
In the case of old age pensioners, free travel facilities are granted with the pension book.
In that case, then, what is the point in having the other one withdrawn? Surely the Minister is not suggesting that these people would let out their travel cards to their friends?
That is not the point. It is a question of the financial arrangements between the State and the transport organisations. There are two separate payments, one payment is made by Social Welfare and the Department of Defence pays separately.
The taxpayer pays for all.
Does it really matter?
It would need an adjustment in the method of payment to the transport organisations concerned and that is a matter that could be considered.