656. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of WTE staff, by grade and gender, currently answering telephone queries and processing free travel pass applications as of 11 May 2026, in tabular form. [36838/26]

The Free Travel Scheme allows people who are aged 66 years or over, and who are legally and permanently residing in the State, to travel free of charge on most CIE public transport services, LUAS, Local Link, as well as on the public transport services of a large number of private operators in various parts of the country. Certain people under age 66 may also be entitled to free travel if they are in receipt of a qualifying primary payment from my Department.

The Free Travel and Household Benefits Customer Contact Centre is staffed by 4 Whole Time Equivalent (WTE) Clerical Officers and 1 WTE Executive Officer on a daily basis. Additional capacity is added when required.

There is a WTE of 9.5 officials involved in the management and processing Free Travel applications.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.