Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising this matter.

The free travel scheme provides free travel on the main public and private transport services for those eligible under the scheme. There are over 1 million users with direct eligibility. The estimated expenditure on free travel in 2023 is €95 million.

It is important to note that, in general, access to a free travel pass for those aged under 66 is a secondary benefit linked to a person being in receipt of certain primary social protection payments from my Department such as disability allowance, invalidity pension, carer's allowance and blind pension.

As many illnesses or physical conditions have an impact ranging from mild to severe, entitlement to these social welfare schemes is not provided on the basis of a diagnosis but on the basis of the impact of that diagnosis on the individual concerned and, in the case of disability and carer's allowance, on an assessment of his or her means. In this way, resources can be targeted to people in most need.

I am aware of an ongoing campaign by Epilepsy Ireland. I fully recognise the issues and difficulties that can arise where a person diagnosed with epilepsy is unable to drive as a result of his or her condition. I have met with representatives of Epilepsy Ireland to discuss its proposal in detail. Following the meeting, I asked my officials to examine the issues raised in relation to access to the free travel scheme. I am awaiting a report from my officials on the issues raised by Epilepsy Ireland. I expect to receive the report shortly and will carefully consider its contents and any recommendations it may contain. I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

See this speech in context