*Update*
Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy has announced an extension to the concessionary fare scheme to include free public transport for those aged 60 and above. The new scheme will be introduced in October 2008. Further information is available online at www.60smartpass.info or by telephoning 0845 600 0049.
Please note that the 60+ SmartPass will not entitle you to free travel on cross-border journeys, or on journeys taken within the Republic of Ireland.
All Ireland Travel for older people living in Northern Ireland
If you are aged 65 or over, and have obtained your Translink Senior SmartPass, you are entitled to travel across the whole of Ireland completely free of charge on all public transport.
The scheme which was introduced April 2007 entitles everyone aged 65 and over who is resident in Northern Ireland to free travel anywhere in the island of Ireland. So, if you haven’t applied for a Senior SmartPass what are you waiting for?
How to apply?
• If you are 65 years of age or approaching it, you can obtain an application form from any main bus or rail station.
• You can also obtain an application form by contacting the Translink Call Centre - telephone 028 90 66 66 30 (seven days a week 7am to 8pm) or textphone 028 90 38 7505.
• Simply complete the form and take it in person to your local bus or rail station with a recent colour passport-sized photograph, proof of age and proof of residency.
• Your details will then be processed and your new pass will be posted to you directly before your 65th birthday.
Proof of age
The following documents are acceptable as proof of age:-
• birth certificate (married women must also produce their marriage certificate to confirm a change of surname); or
• driving licence; or
• passport.
Proof of Residency
The following documents are suitable as proof of residency and must show the client's permanent address in Northern Ireland:-
• recent utilities bill - e.g. electricity, gas, etc; or
• recent bank or building society statement; or
• valid driving licence.
Partners
A spouse or partner of a Senior SmartPass holder is not entitled to free travel while accompanying the pass holder unless they hold a pass in their own right.
Renewals
All SmartPasses must be renewed after 5 years. Holders should be sent a renewal form 3 months before their current pass is due to expire. The holder will be asked to complete a short application form confirming if their details are still correct. They do not need to send additional photographs for a renewal application.
Further information on how to apply for a Translink Senior SmartPass, and details on all promotional offers and timetables, can be obtained by contacting Translink on (028) 9066 6630 or www.translink.co.uk
© Northern Ireland Association of Citizens Advice Bureaux (NIACAB) 2008