To ask the Minister for Regional Development, pursuant to AQW 46965/11-15, whether funding has been ring-fenced for 2015/2016 to protect the Senior Citizen Smart Pass for people aged 65 years and older.

As in my response to AQW 46965/11-15 I reiterate that free travel on public transport including those aged 60 years and older and other vulnerable groups was introduced as an Executive Priority and is currently a target within the Programme for Government. I am fully committed to, and fully support in its totality the Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme, which 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 my Department in this year’s initial budget but it is now estimated that this will not be sufficient to finance the total costs for this year. Under existing DFP budgeting rules this funding must only be used for Concessionary Fares reimbursement. The popularity of the scheme means its continued existence will rely upon continued funding support from the Executive.