Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Question 180: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs further to the announcement of the extension of retirement age under the national pensions framework, if it is her intention to raise the qualifying age for free travel. [13355/10]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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The qualifying age for free travel for those living permanently in the State is currently 66, aligned with the age for the State Pension. There is also provision for free travel for certain categories of persons under 66, including those in receipt of an Invalidity Pension, Blind Person's Pension, Disability Allowance or a Carer's Allowance. A widowed person aged between 60 and 65 years may also be entitled to Free Travel in some circumstances.

As part of the National Pensions Framework, the qualifying age for the State Pension will be increased to 67 years of age in 2021 and 68 in 2028. The implications for other relevant social welfare schemes of raising the qualifying age for the State Pension will be considered in due course.