The free travel scheme operated by my Department is available to all people living in the State aged 66 years or over, as well as certain people with disabilities under that age who are in receipt of certain social welfare type payments. The scheme provides free travel, primarily at off-peak periods, to eligible people on the main public and private transport services. Currently, about 497,000 people qualify for free travel at an estimated annual cost of £ 32.4 million.
Time restrictions have been a feature of the free travel scheme since its inception. They apply generally from 7 a.m. to 9.45 a.m. and from 4.30 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. Monday to Friday inclusive and on Bus Éireann long distance buses from 4 p.m. to 7 a.m. on Fridays for up to 20 miles out from Dublin, Cork or Limerick. They do not, however, apply in the case of mentally-handicapped people, those attending long-term rehabilitation courses and certain other people with disabilities.
Time restrictions have been put in place on city and provincial bus routes because the transport companies concerned are under severe pressure from commuters travelling to or from work or school in the morning and evening.