In a move set to delight families across the country, the government has announced a significant expansion of free public transport access in Budget 2025. The new measures aim to make travel more affordable and accessible for both young children and seniors.
According to The Journal, children aged five to eight will now enjoy free rides on public transport. This marks a notable increase from the previous policy, which only covered children up to five years old. The annual cost of this expansion is expected to be around €8 million.
But it’s not just the little ones who’ll benefit. The over-70s are also getting a travel buddy bonus. Seniors with a free travel pass can now bring a companion along for the ride at no extra cost. Previously, this perk was only available to those who passed a specific assessment.
Both the Green Party and Fianna Fáil are eager to claim credit for these family-friendly initiatives, highlighting public transport as a key priority for the current government.
These changes are set to make family outings and senior socializing easier on the wallet, encouraging more people to choose public transport for their daily commutes and leisurely trips alike.
As the country moves towards more sustainable and inclusive travel options, these new measures represent a significant step in making public transport accessible to all age groups.