Rural transport charter launched

A RURAL transport charter to help combat the social isolation of people living in rural areas has been launched.

It was jointly drafted by Irish Rural Link and Age Action to improve access to public transport in rural communities.

The groups said that with some imagination and extra funding, a huge amount could be achieved in a fairly short space of time.

Age Action said adequate rural transport is a life-line for older people who cannot drive, allowing them to attend medical appointments and get essential groceries.

Its chief executive Robin Webster said the introduction of an all-Ireland free travel pass earlier this month was very welcome.

“However, it should not be forgotten that many older people in rural areas still have no way of accessing free travel in practice,” he said.

Mr Webster said the Rural Transport Programme schemes have been a great benefit to older people, but the services are still infrequent.

Irish Rural Link chief executive Seamus Boland said the unavailability of public transport is significantly contributing to social isolation.