Mr Patsy McGlone (Mid Ulster): To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any steps she is taking to help reduce the cost of transport for disabled people in rural areas.
Minister for Infrastructure: The Concessionary Fares scheme enables eligible disabled passengers under the age of 60 to avail of a 50% discount on standard single fare Translink bus and rail journeys. Passengers over the age of 60 with a disability are eligible for 100% discount using the 60+ concessionary fare smart pass.
An increase from half fare to full fare discount for disabled smartpass holders will be considered as part of budget allocations.
Additionally my Department supports the Community Transport Service Dial-a-Lift (DAL) in rural areas, providing demand responsive transport for users who have limited access to public transport or difficulties using public transport due to mobility or disability. Passengers on the DAL service are able to use their concessionary pass for discounted travel at the same rate they are entitled to on Translink services.
ENDS
