There are calls for changes to the free travel pass to allow them to be used on private transport.
Everyone aged 66 and over is entitled to the scheme, which is available on all State public transport, as well as on a limited number of services operated by private bus companies.
However, Cavan-Monaghan TD Brendan Smith says the conditions applied by the Department on private operators seeking to access the scheme are "too restrictive".
He says a "broadening" of the scheme is needed, as up to 80% of people in rural areas who are eligible for the scheme can't access the service in their area.
Deputy Smith raised the issue in the Dáil in a question to Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys, and he said we must ensure private operators have access to the scheme:
