Ireland South MEP Cynthia Ní Mhurchú, a leading member of the EP’s Transport and Tourism Committee and a champion of cutting red tape in the European Parliament, says the current system is way too heavy on administration and is calling for a modernisation of Ireland’s Free Travel Scheme to provide automatic public transport access for people aged 65 and over, as part of efforts to make Ireland more inclusive and age-friendly.
Ní Mhurchú, a member of the Transport and Tourism Committee in the European Parliament and lead drafter of the Renew Europe Tourism Policy Paper, says this reform would benefit older people by supporting active, socially engaged retirement.
“The existing scheme is top heavy on administration so why not simplify the system by making it an age-based entitlement, similar to models used in parts of Europe.”
Ní Mhurchú is proposing the replacement of it with a universal scheme in which all people aged 65 and over can access free travel simply by showing identification.
Ní Mhurchú notes that as Fianna Fáil marks its centenary this May and 59 years have passed since Former Taoiseach Charles Haughey introduced the Free Travel Scheme in 1967, and with Ireland set to assume the EU Council Presidency in July, the timing is ideal to simplify the system and build on that legacy.
She highlights that accessible transport reduces social isolation, improves healthcare access, and supports independent ageing.
Citing examples such as Budapest, where over-65s travel free on presentation of ID, and Luxembourg, which has introduced nationwide free public transport, she says Ireland risks falling behind European peers if we don’t consider changing.
The Ireland South MEP further states that this approach would align with the European Commission’s broader goal of fostering a more inclusive and mobile Europe, particularly by supporting older adults in maintaining independence and accessing essential services. It also advances the European Green Deal and the EU’s sustainable and smart mobility agenda by reducing reliance on cars and encouraging cleaner transport options.
“Simplifying access would reduce digital exclusion and administrative barriers, while boosting tourism and local economic activity, particularly in retail, hospitality, and cultural sectors. While acknowledging concerns about cost and capacity, she says these can be addressed through better planning and increased public transport services rather than delaying reform.
Ireland has an opportunity to lead in delivering a more accessible and dignified public transport system for older citizens.”
