02/08/2021

Free Travel For Health Care Workers Extended Until 31 August

A scheme providing free travel for health care workers on public transport services is to be extended until 31 August 2021, Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon has announced.

Making the announcement, Minister Mallon, said: "In March 2020 at the outset of the Covid-19 pandemic I took the decision to make public transport free for all health and social care workers in recognition of the tireless and vital work they undertake day and daily. This was a small gesture to those workers who put themselves in the frontline to save lives and look after some of the most vulnerable in our community.

"As we move through the Executive's Pathway to Recovery, it is essential to continue to review the measures put in place. In line with this, I can confirm that the scheme will be extended to 31 August 2021 after which time normal charging will resume. Whilst the scheme was always intended to be temporary, I know this will be disappointing to many. I want to reassure our essential workers that our public transport will continue to be there for you."

To ensure that customers are obtaining the best value travel, Translink will work with health workers to assist with which ticket option will be most suitable for them. To get more information, customers can visit www.translink.co.uk/traveltowork or call Translink's contact centre on 02890 66 66 30 where its agents will be able give guidance on the best options.

The free travel for health and social care staff will also cease on the Strangford and Rathlin ferry services from 31 August 2021.

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

31 January 2024
Gaza Healthcare Workers Nominated For Nobel Peace Prize
The SDLP's Claire Hanna MP has nominated Gaza healthcare workers for a Nobel Peace Prize to recognise their efforts in the face of humanitarian devastation in Gaza.
25 October 2024
Health Minister Unveils New Initiative To Tackle Health Inequalities
Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has announced the launch of Live Better, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing health inequalities in Northern Ireland. The program will initially focus on neighbourhoods in Belfast and L'Derry, with plans to expand to other communities if successful.
29 September 2021
£8.7m Boost For Mental Health Services
Charitable and community mental health services are set to benefit from a new £8.7 million support grant, Health Minister Robin Swann has announced.
06 January 2022
Health Minister Urged To Launch Next Health Workers Payment Scheme
The Health Minister has been urged to launch Phase 2 of the Special Recognition Payment for health workers who have previously left employment in the independent sector or agencies as soon as possible.
15 March 2023
Executive Urgently Needed For NI Health Service
Sinn Féin has highlighted the urgent need to restore the Executive to address the worsening crisis in Northern Ireland's health service. MLA Linda Dillon was speaking after a stark joint statement from Royal Colleges representing thousands of health workers.