Almost 17,000 extra pensioners in the Shannonside region can bring a companion with them for free on transport from September. It's due to changes announced in last year's Budget. Everyone over 66, who lives permanently in Ireland, can get the Free Travel Scheme. This allows them to travel for free on public transport and some private bus and ferry services. At the moment, you can get free travel for a companion also if you can't travel alone for medical reasons.
From this September, this is being extended, and everyone over 70 will be able to bring a companion. Social Protection Minister Dara Calleary says almost half a million people around the country will benefit from this extension. That includes 4,442 in Leitrim, along with 4,734 in Longford, and 7,710 in Roscommon.
