People with epilepsy will be able to use public transport for free as part of a new scheme launched by the Government.
Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys confirmed the move, saying the Free Travel Extension Scheme is needed to ensure people with the condition do not find themselves isolated.
From the end of July, thousands of people who are diagnosed with epilepsy will not have to pay for public transport.
The €8.5 million scheme is expected to help up to 32,000 people, with further information available online.
Minister Humphreys said the scheme will work by extending the existing Free Travel Scheme to people with epilepsy who have never been able to drive due to the condition and are medically certified as not fit to drive for a period of 12 months or longer.
It will cover transport includes buses, rail services, Local Link bus services and the Luas, along with some services operated by private bus and ferry operators.
The scheme was supported by Epilepsy Ireland, whose chief executive Peter Murphy said it will provide a key services to people with epilepsy as they go about their daily lives.
Further information is available at www.gov.ie/freetravel, any Intreo Centre, or on the phone line 0818-200400.
