Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Ceann Comhairle for the opportunity to speak on this important Private Members' motion on the elderly, the free travel pass scheme and the disastrous review of vital social services such as the medical card fiasco. We must all stand up for our senior citizens and their valuable contribution over the past 50 or 60 years. Independent Deputies in this House will always do so and I reject the recent attacks on our elderly. They built up this country and should always be shown respect, dignity and support in their daily lives. It is important to ensure the elderly are fully empowered to engage with society and able to continue as active members of their communities in all aspects. We must recognise the vital role of the free travel pass in supporting elderly people and reducing isolation since it was introduced in 1967.

Almost 80% of older people used the free travel pass at least once a week, while 30% use it daily in order to attend medical appointments and other personal journeys and social activities. There is also broader economic benefit to many cities and towns. I reject the series of cuts that have hit our elderly, such as the hike in prescription charges, the abolition of the telephone allowance, the reduction in the fuel allowance and the erosion of housing aid support. I call on the Government to fully support and retain the free travel scheme in its current form as a universal benefit to all people aged 66 years and over. We should work towards progressing the national positive ageing strategy. I urge all Deputies to put their money where their mouths are and to vote in support of our senior citizens. I put strong emphasis on the senior citizens of the north side of Dublin.

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