Free travel scheme for Kildare residents fleeing domestic violence 'will remove real barriers'
The measures will come into effect from Tuesday, May 5, 2026
A free travel scheme aimed at anyone who is fleeing domestic violence (including those based in County Kildare) 'will remove real barriers'.
The scheme, which was developed from a proposal by Social Democrats Senator Patricia Stephenson, will come into effect from Tuesday, May 5, 2026.
It will provide a non-means tested travel supplement for three months, with the option to extend.
The introduction of the scheme has been welcomed by Social Democrats Cllr Chris Pender, who said that it will 'remove real barriers' for people fleeing domestic, sexual and gender-based violence.
He elaborated: "This is a small change on paper, but it will have a real impact on people’s lives.
"When someone makes the decision to leave an abusive situation, they need to be able to act immediately, and this scheme helps make that possible."
Cllr Pender, who is based in the Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District, continued: "Too often, cost is a barrier.
"If you do not have access to money, even basic travel becomes an obstacle; this removes one of those obstacles and gives people a way out."
He also pointed out that the new initiative will be administered through Community Welfare Officers, with referrals from domestic violence services, refuges, and An Garda Síochána.
Furthermore, his party colleague Senator Stephenson said that the scheme represents 'a small but significant win for survivors of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence'.
She added: "Free travel might sound like a small thing, but it can mean the world to someone starting again after suffering violence, coercive control or psychological abuse."
SCHEME FLEXIBILITY
Cllr Pender claimed that the upcoming measures will reflect 'a clear understanding of the realities faced by those experiencing abuse'.
Moreover, he noted: "It is also important that this scheme is flexible, that it is not means tested, and that it recognises the reality of financial abuse, where many people simply do not have control over their own finances."
Cllr Pender concluded: "Credit is due to Senator Stephenson for bringing this forward and securing cross-party support; now the focus must be on making sure it is implemented properly, that people know about it, and that no one who needs it is left behind."
Social Democrats Cllr Chris Pender. File photograph
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
If you have been affected by this article, you can find resources to help you by contacting Women's Aid at 1800 341 900 or emailing [email protected], or Men's Aid by ringing 01 554 3811 or emailing [email protected].
Additionally, you can find resources to help you by emailing Samaritans Ireland at [email protected], or by ringing 116 123.
For resources related to addressing sexual violence, please visit the official Rape Crisis Centre website on drcc.ie.