PEOPLE AGED OVER 70 can now bring any person over 16 on public transport for free with a companion pass.

The pass allows free travel on bus, rail, Local Link and the Luas, along with some services operated by private bus and ferry transport operators.

The companion pass is an updated version of the public services card with a symbol to show the entitlement to a free travel companion. The Department of Social Protection has written to all eligible people to let them know about the entitlement.

The measure is predicted to benefit over 500,000 people across the country at a cost of €4.1m this year.

It was included as part of last year’s budget, spearheaded by former Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys.

Everyone aged 66 and over, living permanently in Ireland, can already travel for free on public transport under the Free Travel Scheme, but could previously only bring a spouse or partner as a companion.

‘Greater independence’

Minister for Social Protection, Dara Calleary TD, and the Minister for Transport, Darragh O’Brien TD announced the details of the pass today at Heuston Station, Dublin.

Calleary said: “This measure is expected to benefit up to 525,000 people aged 70 and over and I hope it will give older people freedom of choice as well as greater independence and security when travelling for reasons such as medical appointments or to attend family, leisure, or cultural activities.”

Fine Gael Councillor Eoin O’Driscoll has said the companion pass will benefit over 133,000 in Dublin alone, and contribute to tackling social isolation.

“The introduction of the companion pass is hugely positive. If you’re coming up from the country for a day out in Dublin, you can take a friend with you,” he said.

“If you have to travel to a hospital or medical appointment in the Beacon, St. Vincents or Beaumont, you can bring a family member along with you. This will make a real difference in so many people’s lives.”

He said that for many older people the freedom to bring companions other than a spouse or partner could be the push they need to make their journey.

“The companion pass will help combat loneliness and isolation and support older people to keep active so they can travel around the country for as long as they wish. This measure makes it a little easier for them to do so,” he said.