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20/06/2008
On The Buses - Free!
Free travel is being extended to people below pension age for the first time.
NI Transport Minister Conor Murphy announced today that people aged 60-64 will be able to travel on public transport for free for the first time.
He said that it is hoped the plans to extend free travel on public transport will take place from 1 October this year.
The Minister said: "This extension to the Concessionary Fares Scheme is long overdue and will give older people here the same access to free travel as their counterparts in England, Scotland and Wales.
"It clearly demonstrates the advantages of local politicians taking local decisions to improve the lives of local people.
"I would wholeheartedly encourage all eligible passengers to take advantage of this opportunity and to apply for their SmartPass as soon as possible."
This extension was included in the recent budget statement and Programme for Government but until the recent successful completion of policy consultation and Equality Impact Assessment processes, official approval to proceed could not be given.
Once introduced, free travel will only be available to those eligible passengers in receipt of a 60+ SmartPass - which they will need to apply for.
Those eligible persons will - from today - be able to obtain an application form for a SmartPass by telephoning 0845 600 0049.
The Department for Regional Development has launched a campaign to ensure that as much of the eligible population as possible are made aware of the extension. Posters and television advertising will start in the summer.
The Department for Regional Development and Translink have made special arrangements for applicants to take their application forms in person to one of 27 application centres, mainly bus and train stations, throughout Northern Ireland, during July and August.
(BMcC)
NI Transport Minister Conor Murphy announced today that people aged 60-64 will be able to travel on public transport for free for the first time.
He said that it is hoped the plans to extend free travel on public transport will take place from 1 October this year.
The Minister said: "This extension to the Concessionary Fares Scheme is long overdue and will give older people here the same access to free travel as their counterparts in England, Scotland and Wales.
"It clearly demonstrates the advantages of local politicians taking local decisions to improve the lives of local people.
"I would wholeheartedly encourage all eligible passengers to take advantage of this opportunity and to apply for their SmartPass as soon as possible."
This extension was included in the recent budget statement and Programme for Government but until the recent successful completion of policy consultation and Equality Impact Assessment processes, official approval to proceed could not be given.
Once introduced, free travel will only be available to those eligible passengers in receipt of a 60+ SmartPass - which they will need to apply for.
Those eligible persons will - from today - be able to obtain an application form for a SmartPass by telephoning 0845 600 0049.
The Department for Regional Development has launched a campaign to ensure that as much of the eligible population as possible are made aware of the extension. Posters and television advertising will start in the summer.
The Department for Regional Development and Translink have made special arrangements for applicants to take their application forms in person to one of 27 application centres, mainly bus and train stations, throughout Northern Ireland, during July and August.
(BMcC)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:Mostly dry south and east, patchy light rain west and north through much of the day. A band of heavier rain crosses central and northern parts in the morning Maximum temperature 13 °C.Tonight:Dry in the southeast at first otherwise widespread light rain or drizzle for most, turning to clear spells and a few showers towards morning. Minimum temperature 5 °C.
