Huge free travel scheme boost for 32k people facing ‘extra transportation costs’

A FREE travel scheme has been expanded – allowing those medically unfit to drive able to apply.

Individuals can now apply who are medically unfit to drive for at least one year and those who will never be able to drive due to a long-term health condition or disability.

After years of advocacy from Epilepsy Ireland, the scheme will be expanded to include individuals who are medically unfit to drive for at least one year and those who will never be able to drive due to a long-term health condition or disability.

Up to 32,000 people are expected to benefit from this new measure.

These new applicants can avail for the nation’s free travel scheme from July 29.

The move was secured by Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys as part of the 2024 budget.

Minister Humphreys said: “This measure will benefit approximately 32,000 people this year, offering free travel on all public transport provided by the State.

“It will significantly help those with disabilities, including epilepsy, who face extra transportation costs.”

Over 45,000 people have epilepsy in Ireland including 10,000 to 15,000 people who are living with uncontrolled seizures.

Epilepsy Ireland CEO Peter Murphy said: “Navigating epilepsy can be challenging, particularly when driving restrictions impact daily life.

“The expanded Free Travel Scheme is a critical step in easing these burdens, supporting employment, education, and social activities.

“We are grateful to Minister Humphreys for implementing this change, something which we have long advocated for alongside our supporters.

“We would encourage people with epilepsy – and others with other long-term health conditions or disabilities whose condition may prevent them from driving for at least a year – to apply for this new benefit before it comes into effect on July 29.”

To apply, applicants must hold a Public Services Card and submit the new Free Travel Application form, signed and stamped by a GP confirming that they medically unfit to drive for at least a year.

The scheme is for those aged between 17 – 66 and there is no requirement to be on any other Department of Social Protection payment. There is no means test associated with the new scheme.

Application information

The application form is available online and at local INTREO offices.

Completed forms should be sent to the Free Travel Section, Department of Social Protection, College Road, Sligo, F91 T384.

For more information, visit the Free Travel section of the Gov.ie website.

For more information on Epilepsy and Epilepsy Ireland, visit www.epilepsy.ie.