2107. Deputy Naoise Ó Muirí asked the Minister for Social Protection the take-up to date of the concession of free travel to those medically unfit to drive; and the number of children who will benefit from free travel. [63894/26]

As part of Budget 2024, Free Travel eligibility was expanded to people who have never been medically fit to drive due to a disability or are medically certified as unfit to drive for a period of at least 12 months. There is no requirement that a person must be in receipt of a Social Welfare payment, or any means limits in order to qualify for a Free Travel Pass on these medical grounds, provided the other qualifying criteria are met. In July 2026, 4,160 customers were in receipt of a medical type of Free Travel Pass.

At the end of July 2026, there were 7,439 recipients of free travel aged under 18.

Also, the Department of Transport introduced a Free Travel Scheme that allows eligible children to travel free of charge on public transport services. Children under 5 years old can travel free without a leap card. Children aged five to eight years old can travel free with a valid Child Transport for Ireland Leap Card. The initiative was part of the Budget 2025 package of measures to make public transport more affordable and accessible for families.

I trust that this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.