Pensioners should have free travel all day

MINISTER Cullen’s recent announcement that free bus travel for pensioners is to be available 45 minutes earlier than before is a welcome if somewhat inadequate development.

There are still unreasonable restrictions on older people, as free travel will still only be available between 9am and 4.30pm.

Why is it that Luas and DART services can be available to pensioners free of charge at all times? Free Luas travel is available between 5.30am and half an hour after midnight, and clearly this facility does not have a significant adverse effect on other paying customers.

Bus operators should follow the example set by our rail operators.

I will be discussing this matter and others at my next public meeting on ageing and ageism today at 2pm in The Dropping Well, Milltown Road, Dublin 6. All are welcome to attend and contribute to the debate.

Senator Mary White

Seanad Eireann

Kildare Street

Dublin 2