To ask the Minister for Regional Development whether (i) immediate; or (ii) future cuts to his departmental budget will impact upon the 60 plus smartpass.

Free travel on public transport for the over 60s and other vulnerable groups was introduced as an Executive Priority and is currently a target within the Programme for Government. I fully support the Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme, which includes the 60+ SmartPass as it contributes in a very positive way to reducing social isolation for older people and has played an important part in revitalising Public Transport.

I recognise that additional funding for concessionary fares was provided to the Department in the budget but it is now estimated that this will not be sufficient to finance the total costs for this year. The popularity of the scheme means its continued existence will rely upon continued funding support from the Executive.