“Free Travel Passes as Step Forward for Disability Rights” – Steven Matthews TD

Green TD Steven Matthews has welcomed the announcement that free travel passes will be provided for those who are certified medically unfit to drive. This is a key measure proposed by Epilepsy Ireland that will be implemented as part of Budget 2024. Following a statement confirming the allocation of funding for the measure, Deputy Matthews said:

“I am delighted that the Free Travel Pass Scheme will be extended to those who are certified medically unfit to drive. I have engaged with a number of people and families impacted by epilepsy and other conditions and I recently wrote to the Department of Transport in support of this measure. Lack of access to transport is an issue that particularly impacts the epilepsy community and can result in difficulties in attending the workplace and participating in social activities.

“This measure will help to combat social isolation in people with epilepsy and other conditions and is a step forward for disability rights. I would like to thank Epilepsy Ireland for their work in this campaign. There are an estimated 1,125 people living with epilepsy in Wicklow and I hope that this measure will directly benefit many of these individuals and their families. If anyone has any questions regarding the Free Travel Pass Scheme or supports for people living with epilepsy, please drop me an email and I will provide any assistance that I can”, concluded Deputy Matthews.