Sir, – Carl O'Brien writes that that, "When companion passes are taken into account, there are more than 1.1 million customers with free travel eligibility" ("Transport firms issue threat over free travel scheme", Front Page, June 30th).
That’s a lot of votes. – Yours, etc,
MATTIE LENNON,
Lacken,
Blessington,
Co Wicklow.
Sir, – I believe the free travel scheme to be of enormous social, psychological and economic benefit to citizens. It should, however, be administered effectively. A photo-ID card should be used to eliminate fraud. On clients reaching 66, social welfare services should send out application forms only. At present, non-photo cards are sent out automatically. I know many people who have never used their free travel passes. Make application forms and renewal payments available online. Charge for the card annually – a modest figure to cover administration costs, say €30. If transport providers are having financial problems, then restrict travel to non-peak times. End the issuing of companion passes, unless the card-holder is disabled.
I think these simple steps would eliminate the unbalanced elements of the scheme. Meanwhile, I am trying to improve my cycling.– Yours, etc,
JANE HALL,
George’s Street Upper,
Dún Laoghaire,
Co Dublin.