Focus on concessionary fares

Smartpass use has the potential to have major impacts amongst our older population and also persons living with a disability.

‘It is important for people to share their views on the proposed changes by either registering for the focus group, or by responding to the Department for Infrastructures public consultation, which closes at 5pm on Thursday 24 August 2023.’

To get as many of the local age-friendly community and persons living with a disability involved in the consultation process for the proposed changes to current concessionary fares, a focus group event has been organised by the Department of Infrastructure.

The focus group will be held to discuss specifically the Proposed Changes to Concessionary Fares and will be held on Friday 23 June from 2-3.30pm in Harbour House, adjacent to the Guildhall, Derry.

‘Transport is an important and integral part of citizens lives to enable them to participate and contribute within society,’ said Ciara Burke, Age Friendly Coordinator with Derry City and Strabane District Council. ‘The Concessionary Fares scheme presents helps people to access continue to work, access training, volunteering, attend appointments, support carers and contribute to the wider local economy, whilst also helping address loneliness and social inclusion. Changes to the current scheme such as raising the age of eligibility and limiting

Transport is identified as one of the World Health Organisations key domains within their framework for developing Age Friendly Cities and Communities, so it is important to get as many people as possible involved in the consultation.

Places are limited and the focus group is aimed at individuals rather than organisations. To register please contact Alexandra Wallace at Derry City and Strabane District Council on 028 7125 3253 or email Alexandra.wallace@derrystrabane.com