Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2026
689. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Social Protection if patients travelling long distances for medical appointments without free travel passes could be given some form of travel allowances to cover the costs of regular journeys (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5635/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Free Travel Scheme allows persons to travel, free of charge, on all public transport owned by the State. This includes bus, rail, Local Link, and the Luas, with some exceptions. Free travel is also available on some services operated by private bus and ferry transport operators.
While over 1.1 million people have direct access to the Free Travel Scheme, with an estimated expenditure of €113.73 million in 2026, I understand that there will always be cases where people are not eligible for the scheme and cannot avail of free travel. It is for this reason that my Department provides support through the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme.
Under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme, my Department may make Additional Needs Payments to help meet essential expenses that a person cannot pay from their weekly income or other personal and household resources.
This can include assistance with transport costs incurred for attending hospital appointments where there are no other supports available. A travel supplement may be paid where a person has a recurring travel expense such as where a person has ongoing travel costs for hospital visits.
The decision process for Additional Needs Payments involves consideration of the need presented and the ability of the person and their household to meet that need. This entails an assessment, as opposed to a specific means test, of an applicant’s weekly household income, their savings and investments, their outgoings and the type of assistance needed.
In considering an Additional Needs Payment application for assistance with transport costs incurred for attending hospital appointments, the Community Welfare Officer considers any alternatives available to the customer, including transport services offered by the Health Service Executive.
Any person who considers that they may have an entitlement to an Additional Needs Payment is encouraged to contact their local community welfare service. There is a National Community Welfare Contact Centre in place - 0818-607080 - which will direct callers to the appropriate office. In addition, applications can be made online via www.mywelfare.ie.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
