Ned O'Sullivan (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

One of the advantages of getting old is that one qualifies for free travel. I look forward to collecting my free travel pass next November. Free travel is there for everyone and is a legacy of Charlie Haughey, who was far-thinking on this issue.

It has been brought to my attention that people who carry an Irish passport but do not reside in the country permanently do not qualify for the pass. In particular, I have in mind members of religious orders who are working in the Third World, including Africa. When they return home on holiday, which is usually just once every three years, and try to catch up with family and go on retreat to their convents or chapels, they do not qualify. Of all people who should get some clap on the back from the State, it is these unsung heroes who do tremendous work abroad. When they return to Ireland, they should be considered for inclusion in the free travel scheme. And not just them. Any of our emigrants over the age of 66 years who return to the country for a break should be able to avail of this bounty. It is not means tested, with people entitled to it who are well able to afford stretched limousines if they want to. Why not extend the free travel pass to specific people upon their return to the country? I ask the Leader to raise this matter with the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport.