Media Statement
The national patient organisation representing people with epilepsy and their families, Epilepsy Ireland, have issued a reminder about the upcoming changes to the Free Travel scheme.
After years of advocacy from Epilepsy Ireland, the scheme will be expanded to include individuals who are medically unfit to drive for at least one year and those who will never be able to drive due to a long-term health condition or disability.
Speaking at the official launch of the newly expanded scheme in May, Minister Heather Humphreys highlighted the importance of this initiative:
This measure will benefit approximately 32,000 people this year, offering free travel on all public transport provided by the State. It will significantly help those with disabilities, including epilepsy, who face extra transportation costs.
Epilepsy Ireland CEO Peter Murphy expressed his gratitude and support for the new scheme:
Navigating epilepsy can be challenging, particularly when driving restrictions impact daily life. The expanded Free Travel Scheme is a critical step in easing these burdens, supporting employment, education, and social activities. We are grateful to Minister Humphreys for implementing this change, something which we have long advocated for alongside our supporters.
We would encourage people with epilepsy – and others with other long-term health conditions or disabilities whose condition may prevent them from driving for at least a year - to apply for this new benefit before it comes into effect on July 29th.
How to Apply
To apply, individuals must hold a Public Services Card and submit the new Free Travel Application form, signed and stamped by a GP confirming that they medically unfit to drive for at least a year. The scheme is for those aged between 17 – 66 and there is no requirement to be on any other Department of Social Protection payment. There is no means test associated with the new scheme.
The application form is available online and at local INTREO offices. Completed forms should be sent to the Free Travel Section, Department of Social Protection, College Road, Sligo, F91 T384.
For more information, visit the Free Travel section of the Gov.ie website or the 'Advocacy' section of www.epilepsy.ie.