Under the existing free travel scheme, pass holders who reside in the Republic of Ireland can travel free within this jurisdiction. Similarly, people who live in Northern Ireland and who hold a concessionary travel pass can travel free within the North. Under the special cross-Border arrangements, in place since 1995, both southern and northern pass holders can undertake cross-Border journeys free of charge.
The introduction of free travel on an all-Ireland basis would enable southern pass holders to make free onward journeys within the North. Similarly, Northern Ireland pass holders would be able to make internal journeys within the Republic free of charge. There are a number of issues to be resolved in order to implement an enhanced all-Ireland free travel system on these lines. These issues will require co-operation between my Department and the Department of Regional Development in Northern Ireland as well, as the relevant northern and southern transport operator companies.
My predecessor met the Minister of State at the Department of Regional Development in Northern Ireland in September 2004 to explore the potential for co-operation between the two Departments with regard to the proposal. Contacts are continuing between officials of the two Departments. I have written to the Minister, Mr. John Spellar, in Northern Ireland stressing my interest in progressing this matter.