Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 June 2018
323. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Education and Skills to set out the estimated cost of providing a free travel card to students in receipt of a grant or on the back-to-education allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24519/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe BTEA and the Free Travel Scheme are administered by the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. I've been advised that the Free Travel Scheme is currently available to people who are aged 66 years or over and who are permanently residing in the State.
In 2016/17, there were 78,904 students in receipt of SUSI grant support. The cost of extending the Free Travel Scheme to this cohort of students or to BTEA recipients is a matter for the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection.
