Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 10 May 2001

Vol. 536 No. 1

Written Answers - Free Travel Scheme.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

81 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the position whereby private transport operators participate in the free travel scheme as administered by the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs; if it is necessary for such operators to get clearance from Bus Éireann to operate; if she will inquire from a bus company which operates on a particular route (details supplied) if it might be prepared to participate in this scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13487/01]

Minister of State at the Department of Public Enterprise (Mr. Jacob)

The free travel scheme is a non-statutory scheme whereby private bus operators accept bus passes for free travel and are remunerated by the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs. The criteria and requirements for participation are laid down by the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs. Details of the requirements may be obtained from that Department.

Bus operators do not need clearance from Bus Éireann to take part in the free travel scheme. As a result of the Deputy's inquiry the bus company has been approached by my Department to inquire if it would be interested in joining the free travel scheme. The company has indicated that it would be agreeable to participation and has been advised to contact the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs.