Senior Smartpass Holders Urged: DO IT! RENEW IT!

9 January 2007
SENIOR SMARTPASS HOLDERS URGED: DO IT! RENEW IT!
Regional Development Minister, David Cairns, today encouraged SmartPass holders to renew their passes and continue to receive free travel.
The Minister said: "The first SmartPasses were issued in 2002 and now over 200,000 people enjoy free travel. I would strongly urge free fare SmartPass holders to check the expiry date on the front of their card and apply for a new pass if necessary. A SmartPass cannot be used to obtain free fares after it has expired.
"Approximately three months before a SmartPass expires, the Department for Regional Development will write to pass holders explaining how to get a new pass. The Department has also set up a dedicated user helpline 0845 600 0049 for those who need further information.
"The call to senior citizens to renew their passes will also be highlighted in advertisements in the local press and on board Translink vehicles. Look out for the message, DO IT! RENEW IT!"
A SmartPass is valid for five years and after this time it must be renewed. If a senior citizen is 70 years of age or older, it is very likely that he or she will need to renew their SmartPass soon. The Senior SmartPass must also be current before it can be used as electoral identification at the polling station. As no SmartPass will expire before 30th April 2007, all current Senior SmartPasses CAN be used as ID at the proposed Assembly Election.
Senior citizens make up 99% of free travel concessionaires. Registered Blind and War Disablement SmartPass holders will also be contacted about the renewal process.

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