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Free Travel for over 60s in Northern Ireland

30th September 2008:

Transport Minister Conor Murphy today officially launched free travel on public transport in the north for people aged 60 to 64.

To date, over 45,000 people have applied for a 60 SmartPass which means that from October 1 2008 they can travel free of charge, without any time restrictions, on nearly all scheduled bus and rail services here.

Back (L-R) NITHC and Translink Chief Executive Catherine Mason and Transport Minister Conor Murphy meet with 60 Smartpass passengers who will be entitled to free public transport across Northern Ireland from October 1.

Speaking at the Europa Buscentre in Belfast, the Minister said: “Tomorrow is the International Day of Older People, and so it is particularly appropriate that I am here to officially launch free travel in the north of Ireland for people aged 60 to 64. I sincerely hope that this will prove to be a significant benefit to people which will increase their opportunities in a variety of ways and also enrich their quality of life.”

To obtain free travel, eligible passengers must obtain a 60 SmartPass. The Department for Regional Development has set up a helpline on 0845 600 0049 for those who need further information.

Mr Murphy said: “The extension of free travel to people in the north aged 60 and over is welcome, and, perhaps, overdue. It demonstrates once again how a locally-elected and locally-accountable Assembly can improve the lives of local people.”

Catherine Mason, Group Chief Executive, NITHCo and Translink, said:

“This is a huge milestone for 60-64 year olds in the north and will have a positive impact on people’s lives and finances in particular. With potentially 90,000 people now entitled to completely free public transport here for the first time, we are looking forward to giving passengers a comfortable, safe, reliable and hassle-free service across our bus and rail network. I would encourage those who have not yet applied for the 60 SmartPass to do so and take advantage of the perks of free travel.”

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS:

It is estimated that extending free travel to people aged 60 to 64 will cost Ł4 million per annum.
The new scheme will only be available for journeys taken within the north. The All-Ireland Free Travel Scheme is available to residents of the north aged 65 and residents of the South aged 66. The government in the south has no plans to reduce the eligible age for free travel.

All media enquiries to:

Emma Flynn Davies or Ann Armstrong, DRD Press Office on 9054 0817.
Ursula Kelleher, PR Officer, Translink on 9089 9400ext 2734 or mob 07786 884024.

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