Age could be raised to 66 for free public transport

The age of qualifying for a senior bus pass - could be raised to 65 or 66.

The Department of Infrastructure, which is in charge of public transport, is thinking of making the change due to "increased costs".

Currently anyone aged 60 can get a free bus pass - but that has not been changed since 2008.

A department spokesperson says no decisions have been made yet, and that they are keen to hear from the public on how the proposed changes might affect them.

A DfI spokesperson said: “We recognise the importance of the scheme and the benefits it brings to those who use their SmartPass to travel on public transport.

"However, the cost of the Scheme has increased significantly and we anticipate it will continue to rise. With that in mind we are looking at all options to ensure the scheme will continue to promote social inclusion, without impacting the delivery of public transport services or other services the department provides."

However the spokesperson added things have still to be finalised.

“No decisions have been made yet. We are keen to hear from the public, representative groups and others on how the proposed changes might affect them.

"We also want to hear view on how the scheme might operate in the future. Our priority is to ensure that it is affordable and at the same time, targeted at those who need it most.”

The public consultation is available here: https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/consultations/consultation-changes-concessionary-fares-scheme