Companion Pass to make ‘real difference’ for almost 20,00 older people in Meath
The introduction of a Free Travel Companion Pass will help tackle social isolation and make it easier for older people across Meath to travel with a friend or relative, a Fine Gael senator has said.
Meath West senator Linda Nelson Murray welcomed the move, describing it as a “real difference” for people aged 70 and over who already qualify for the Free Travel scheme.
“The introduction of the companion pass is hugely positive,” she said.
“If you’re coming up from the country for a day out in Dublin, you can take a friend with you. If you have to travel to a hospital appointment in Navan or Drogheda, you can bring a family member along. This will make a real difference in so many people’s lives.”
Until now, free travel holders could only be accompanied by a spouse or partner. The new scheme expands this to include friends, nieces, nephews, or grandchildren.
“For many, the ability to choose who can travel with them could be the push they need to make their journey,” Senator Nelson Murray added.
The Free Travel Companion Pass will be accepted on most Irish Rail, Bus Éireann, Dublin Bus, DART, and Luas services.
“The companion pass will help combat loneliness and isolation and support older people in Meath 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."
Senator Nelson Murray concluded: “This measure will be key to combatting isolation, and I hope it will encourage older people across Meath to get on the bus or train to get out and about.”