safari extensions in orion

Riccardo Mori

Writer & translator, this is my next main browser: a review of orion.

• English / iOS / Mac OS / UX / Web

Introduction

Back in late March 2021, among the many feedback emails I was still receiving after the little Mac OS X Snow Leopard retrospective I had published in February, I received a message from Vladimir Prelovac, asking me if I wanted to try Orion , a new browser for Mac his company Kagi was working on, and if I wanted to share my observations and criticism with him.

Full disclosure here: Since March 2021 I’ve been an Orion beta tester and I was also asked to provide feedback and insights on user interface-related matters. I have nonetheless approached writing this review by trying to be as unbiased as possible. Whether you think I’ve succeeded or not, I invite you to try Orion and judge for yourselves.

I’ve always loved trying browsers out, because I’ve always been curious to see how developers would approach such type of software tool which is fundamentally designed to accomplish a ‘simple’ task — browsing the Web. The fun part with indie-developed browsers has always been to see how developers would decide the browser’s structure. Which features they would give precedence to. Which feature they would elevate as the defining characteristic of the browser. And which features they would either put in the background or eliminate entirely as part of the specific approach they intended for their browser.

The Shiira Project back in 2004 released a WebKit-based open source browser called Shiira. From its Wikipedia page :

Since the browser was developed with Safari in mind, the main characteristics of the two browsers are similar. For example, Shiira employs private browsing options so that history and cookies are not recorded when activated. However, the search engines search field on the toolbar includes many search engines. Shiira also uses Cocoa programming to provide users with a customizable drawer extending from the left or right of the window. The drawer includes bookmarks, history, downloads, and an RSS reader. In version 2.0, the sidebar was replaced by a series of palettes opened and closed from the main window toolbar. Shiira natively supports in-browser PDF viewing.

Shiira was perhaps the first indie attempt to bring new UI ideas to the browser, and I liked the idea of that side drawer. If I remember well, it was also used for browser tab management, and you could actually see thumbnails of the other pages you had opened. Another browser that implemented tabbed browsing using a side drawer at about the same time as Shiira was OmniWeb in its version 5.0, released in August 2004. (OmniWeb’s historical importance can’t be overlooked, of course, but at this point in the timeline its development was starting to slow down).

The Barbarian Group in 2008 created a WebKit-based browser called Plainview whose defining characteristic was its being a truly full-screen browser, and, since it was a full-screen browser, they also devised a Presentation mode so that, say, a Web developer could showcase a few websites they built by essentially bookmark them and show them one by one like in a sort of slideshow.

Another experimental browser that appeared in 2008 was Stainless, by Danny Espinoza. Its defining feature was stated right in its tagline: A multi-process browser for OS X inspired by Google Chrome. In the final version of the browser’s official website when the developer announced he couldn’t keep developing Stainless and released its source code (circa 2013), you can read what made Stainless a very interesting browser:

Stainless started out as a technology demo to showcase my own multi-processing architecture in response to Google Chrome (Stainless 0.1 was released three weeks after Google released Chrome for Windows). Sensing an opportunity and inspired by a growing fanbase, I decided to craft Stainless into a full-fledged browser and work on features that I hadn’t seen before in other browsers. A prime example is parallel sessions , which allow you to log into a site using different credentials in separate tabs at the same time. This new technology is woven throughout Stainless, from the private cookie storage system, to session-aware bookmarks that remember the session in which they were saved. I still believe this is a true browser innovation (and I’d love to see this implemented in Chrome).

I was a fan of Stainless. It was a rather bare-bones browser, but I really took advantage of its parallel sessions feature which, for example, allowed me to log into two (or more) different Gmail accounts at the same time, by keeping each login in its own tab.

Around 2014 a group of developers released Breach, “a new modular browser written entirely in JavaScript”. This was clearly a more geeky project, but the modularity concept intrigued me. As you can read in the archived site homepage for Breach, “Everything in the browser is a module, a web-app running in its own process. Construct your own browsing experience by selecting the right modules for you.” I only spent a limited time trying out Breach back then, but I was generally impressed by how lightweight and fast it felt.

These are just a few examples. Over time, many other experimental indie browsers have come and gone, but these are perhaps the ones I’ve used the most and that made me look beyond the official browsers built by larger tech companies.

Back to Orion

The Orion project is decidedly more ambitious. In a previous version of the browser’s website FAQ Page , the first question was “What is Orion’s goal?” and the answer was We want Orion to be the best browser for Apple devices. It sounds bold but, after using Orion for several months, and seeing it grow and mature update after update, I think Orion is on its way to fulfil that goal.

Orion’s approach is utilitarian. It doesn’t want to win users with a fancy UI or quirky æsthetics to appear ‘different’. Its user interface is not that different from Safari. Its design philosophy has to do with how the browser works, not how it looks. And today a browser should be fast (in a Web that’s getting progressively bloated and dragged down by intrusive, resource-consuming scripts), privacy conscious, and adhering to the web’s standards. And that’s what Orion is and does.

This, at first sight, sounds simplistic and unassuming. On paper, all major browsers are like that. What makes Orion noteworthy? Several things you only notice by actually using it.

Like, really fast. On my Mac, it feels perceptibly faster than Safari. It feels lighter, less encumbered, more responsive. In Safari, when I type an URL and then press Enter to load the website, there’s often a small but noticeable delay before Safari actually starts loading the website. With Orion the loading starts immediately. I’ve tested Orion on an Intel MacBook Pro, so perhaps the difference in performance between Orion and Safari is more nuanced on faster, Apple Silicon Macs. On this MacBook Pro I also have Brave and Firefox, and Orion is faster than those as well, in case you were wondering.

It’s energy-efficient

Speed is important, but of course it’s not everything. Orion is also a very energy-efficient browser. It’s certainly less memory-hungry than Chrome, Brave or Firefox, plus it has a Low Power Mode that really works and really saves battery life. The MacBook Pro I’m using as a test machine has an old battery with a lot of cycles (the Battery status is ‘Service recommended’), so, with medium-to-heavy use the MacBook never lasts more than 3 hours.

When its battery is running low (say, around 20%), I close all non-essential apps and keep Orion as the sole open browser. On more than one occasion I noticed how the MacBook’s battery took more time to discharge to the point where you get the warning to connect the Mac to a power source, or else it’ll go to sleep. In short, thanks to Orion I’ve managed to squeeze almost half an hour more out of a session on a single charge. And this with an old battery, imagine on better-performing machines.

It’s extremely respectful of your privacy

Read the privacy-related FAQ on Orion’s FAQ Page , because it really explains everything you need to know about Orion’s privacy features. I can simply confirm, by personal experience, that it does what it says on the tin. The very short version is: it’s at the very least as privacy-minded as Safari (same underlying technologies), and more.

One aspect worth mentioning is that Orion is, by default, a zero-telemetry application. You may have read this in the FAQ page, but what does it mean? In hopefully simple words, telemetry is the automated process of recording and transmission of data from one site to another that is capable of monitoring and analysing such data. One example could be a weather station, collecting information via an array of sensors, and transmitting such data to a meteorological institute to be processed, analysed, and archived.

When it comes to software, an application can collect a series of data about the machine it is installed on and the way the application is being utilised (how frequently, what kind of settings and preferences are selected, etc.). Subsequently, the application sends the data elsewhere, typically back to who developed it (hence the expression “to phone home”), so that they can analyse the behaviour of the user base when engaging with the app.

In theory this may not entirely be a bad thing, as a developer could use this data to improve their application, for example. But as it’s pointed out on Orion’s FAQ page, Most browsers regularly send dozens or even hundreds of requests. Each request poses a security risk, no matter what information it sends, by potentially exposing your IP address and your browser fingerprint. Telemetry can also inadvertently leak personally identifiable information or corporate intelligence.

Therefore, the fact that Orion does not have built-in telemetry means that the browser does not collect any kind of data about its users that could potentially expose them. Then how can Orion’s developers direct its development, how can they make Orion better if they don’t receive any usage data? Vladimir Prelovac gave me a simple answer via email:

[Orion’s development is] directed by user feedback and nothing else. People share with us an incredible amount of information, more valuable than any telemetry could tell us.

Orion supports both Chrome and Firefox extensions

This is because Orion natively supports the Web Extensions API. I think it’s a rather impressive goal and it’s unquestionably a very powerful feature. A lot of people are hesitant to stop using Chrome because, as they say, they don’t want to lose access to certain functionalities tied to some of their favourite extensions. But knowing that Orion supports them, they could potentially make the switch. And that would be great, since Orion consumes much fewer resources than Chrome, and it’s certainly more privacy-focused. At the time of writing, Orion’s extensions support is not yet 100%, but it’s getting there. I’m not a heavy extensions user, typically, but I’ve tried some of the most popular and they seemed to work just fine.

I like how extensions are managed. It’s all quite straightforward. I like that there’s a quick way to find and install the most popular. The first extension I usually look to install on any browser I use is uBlock Origin. In Orion, I went to Tools → Extensions → Manage, clicked on Add Extension, then Popular Extensions, and there it was. (At the time of writing, the other popular extensions offered in this panel are Dark Reader, Bypass Paywalls Clean, 1Password, Bitwarden, Grammarly, and Honey). You also have the additional option of allowing the extensions on all websites, allowing them for one day, or having the browser ask for each website.

Some personal favourites

• The Tools menu contains a couple of features I really love. Edit Text on Page is very useful to me as a translator. Sometimes I get assignments like translating a block of text that is positioned in a certain way on a website. And the translated text often needs to fit in the same space (give or take a line or two) as the original. Being able to easily edit the text on a webpage, I can preview how my translation will look directly on the page. Take Screenshot of the Entire Page is something I’ve wanted in a browser since finding this feature in an old app called LittleSnapper. To me, it’s quite useful, especially when I’m exploring archived sites in the Internet Archive’s WayBack Machine. (LittleSnapper also let you edit text on page directly, by the way).
• The use of a separate panel to manage Bookmarks and Extensions, to see the History and the saved passwords, is another welcome feature in my book. I’ve always disliked how Safari handles History. When in Safari you select History → Show all History, it loads the History in the same tab you’re viewing — it’s annoying, because more often than not, when you’re finished examining the History, you close the tab, and with it the site you had open before loading the History. The separate panel on Orion is a much tidier solution.
• Focus Mode is nice. When you need to read a long-form article, for example, and you don’t want anything in your way, you select View → Focus Mode, and both the Address bar and the Tab bar disappear. (By the way, whether you’re in Focus Mode or not, if you put Orion in full-screen mode, the whole application chrome goes away, leaving you with just the webpage contents. If you prefer to keep seeing the toolbar in full-screen mode, like it happens in Safari, you can tell Orion by ticking the Always show toolbar in full screen option in Orion → Preferences → Appearance).
• Vertical Tabs is another interesting option. If one is browsing on a particularly big screen (say, on iMacs, or Mac laptops with a bigger external display attached), I can see the appeal of having tabs stacked within a sidebar on the left. But even on a laptop the feature can be useful. When selecting View → Toggle Vertical Tabs, Orion defaults to showing just the website favicons on a sidebar that slides from the left and can be extended to progressively reveal each website’s title. For many users, favicons are so distinctive that are enough to make a site recognisable, therefore using vertical tabs minimised this way ends up being both a vertical and horizontal space saver, in my opinion.
• I like the fact that Orion doesn’t have a default search engine. Instead, the first time you click on the address bar after installation, the browser prompts you to set (or not) the default search engine of your choice.

iOS and iPadOS, too

Another exciting thing is that Orion is also being developed for iOS/iPadOS. My review has focused exclusively on the Mac side of things because when it comes to browsers, Mac OS still offers a more versatile environment than iOS. But even at this stage, Orion for iOS already has unique features, like the ability to support web extensions, something other browsers don’t have. Orion for iOS is still in beta, so this kind of support is still at a preliminary stage at the time of writing, but this is undoubtedly excellent news.

Closing thoughts

Would I recommend Orion? Without a doubt. I was positively impressed right from the start. When I first launched Orion back in March 2021, the first reaction was that it felt a bit bare-bones and with a very ‘Safari lite’ look and feel. But its speed and stability were astounding for a beta. And Orion has been getting better and maturing at a staggering pace. This is not a passion project from a single developer who updates it intermittently, and ends up abandoning it for lack of resources, increased inertia, loss of interest. This is a solid piece of software that’s being developed by a company of competent people who have an ambitious goal — to make the best browser for Apple devices — and a business plan.

If you’re wondering “how will Orion make money?” there is, again, an answer to this exact question on the FAQ page: Our Pro version will allow users to support Orion’s development. Will it generate revenue? That’s up to you. Regardless, all funding for Orion will come from its users rather than ads, tracking, data monetization or any other indirect way. […] We believe this project will deliver an experience that its users value enough to support. We believe that enough to promise that we’ll never resort to ads or other such funding methods.

On a personal level, Orion is certainly going to be my next default browser on every Mac that can run it (it currently supports Mac OS 10.14 and higher, but there are plans to make it work on Mac OS 10.13 too). And it couldn’t have come at a more serendipitous moment. Apple’s recent tendency to experiment with software design and Mac user interface in a way that seems increasingly forgetful of good design and usability practices has got me worried and disappointed. The butchering of Safari 15’s design and user interface was averted and reverted at the last minute, but who knows what Apple will pull next.

The existence of Orion, in this regard, is a relief. I can forget about the next Safari entirely and make Orion my primary browser — it looks and feels like the ‘good old’ Safari, and adds more interesting and useful features on top of it. The fact that Orion is designed to prioritise being a powerful tool to navigate today’s Web, rather than being a cool app with an ‘opinionated’ UI, is truly refreshing to me, because it’s exactly what I expect from a Web browser in this day and age.

And I suspect Orion will attract a lot of users who share my perspective — people disappointed in Apple’s software quality and UI design direction; people who love their extensions but maybe don’t love Chrome or Firefox as much; people who love to browse this bloated, ad- and tracker-ridden Web unhampered and with as much privacy as possible. With a browser made by a company that’s quite transparent about its intentions and goals — to be on the user’s side and give users the best possible tool for the job. It reminds me of Apple, a few years back.

This is my next main browser: a review of Orion was first published by Riccardo Mori on Morrick.me on 8 February 2022.

The Author Riccardo Mori

Writer. Translator. Mac consultant. Enthusiast photographer. • If you like what I write, please consider supporting my writing by purchasing my short stories, Minigrooves or by making a donation . Thank you!

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Universal   Orion is amazing. Goodbye forever Safari

• Thread starter Spaceboi Scaphandre
• Start date Sep 13, 2022
• Sort by reaction score
• iOS Apps and Apple Arcade

Spaceboi Scaphandre

Macrumors 68040.

• Sep 13, 2022

So I started using the beta for Orion Browser on Mac, and it's changed everything. The lightweight functionality and Apple features of Webkit, but without Safari's issues, and unlike Safari IT HAS PLUGINS. Not to mention a compatibility mode for websites designed for Chrome. But then I discovered it's also on the iOS App Store...and the plugins work on iOS as well... Yeah...Safari's done. There's no reason to go back to it at all when Orion exists that is literally just Safari but better.  

macrumors regular

• Sep 14, 2022

Kagi dot com Great, so far. Ad blocking is good. Thanks.  

notgonna said: Kagi dot com Great, so far. Ad blocking is good. Thanks. Click to expand...

macrumors newbie

• Sep 16, 2022

I am also using it for last 3 days exclusively. Experience is good. Pretty lightweight. Running uBlock Origin (for adblocking) along with builtin adblocker. Also installed on my iPhone 12 iOS16 and made it default browser. So far so good.  

Nicky.tbhp said: I am also using it for last 3 days exclusively. Experience is good. Pretty lightweight. Running uBlock Origin (for adblocking) along with builtin adblocker. Also installed on my iPhone 12 iOS16 and made it default browser. So far so good. Click to expand...

Spaceboi Scaphandre said: You have no idea how good it feels to finally be able to use uBlock on an iPhone. Click to expand...

Nicky.tbhp said: Something is not right with my ublock origin on iPhone Orion browser. I tried installing firefox and chrome ublock extension but neither blocks ads. It doesn’t show settings. Not sure what is wrong? Click to expand...

I just read on Orion’s feedback forum. uBlock is not supported on iOS currently. So I guess you are mistaken with MacOS.  

Nicky.tbhp said: I just read on Orion’s feedback forum. uBlock is not supported on iOS currently. So I guess you are mistaken with MacOS. Click to expand...

Spaceboi Scaphandre said: ????? Bro uBlock is right there. All my Youtube ads are blocked now on my phone View attachment 2066699 View attachment 2066700 Click to expand...

• Sep 19, 2022

Nicky.tbhp said: YouTube ads are blocked for sure. And these same screens I can also see. But when I click on Ublock settings icon, it doesn’t show anything. If you open nxbrew.com, it doesn’t block pop ups. While orion with ublock on my Macbook blocks every ad superbly Click to expand...

allan.nyholm

Macrumors 68020.

• Jan 23, 2023

@Spaceboi Scaphandre I gotta ask.. have you experienced any issues with getting directly to a comment in a thread via the notification area of MacRumors Forums? When clicking the bell - symbol on the front page of the forum next to your user image? With the latest Orion RC and releases before that , I can't seem to get directly to any of the notifications presented to me.. Orion RC hangs for about a minute on loading a single notification  

allan.nyholm said: @Spaceboi Scaphandre I gotta ask.. have you experienced any issues with getting directly to a comment in a thread via the notification area of MacRumors Forums? When clicking the bell - symbol on the front page of the forum next to your user image? With the latest Orion RC and releases before that , I can't seem to get directly to any of the notifications presented to me.. Orion RC hangs for about a minute on loading a single notification Click to expand...

Spaceboi Scaphandre said: Now that you mention it I have yesterday. I thought it was just MacRumors' host server taking a crap, but if you're having issues now then I don't know what's going on, as MacRumors is the only site having that issue suddenly Try turning on compatibility mode for MacRumors on Orion and see if that changes anything. Click to expand...

allan.nyholm said: The issue exists on Neowin as well for such notifications. It could be a forum backend issue, I'm not certain if the two sites happen to share a common forum software. They might, as the process is quite similar when getting a notification and clicking to it. Compatibility Mode doesn't help unfortunately. I've been doing hand stands on my parakeet(RIP parakeet) to see if that helps. It didn't. Now I have one less parakeet instead. Thanks Orion. Click to expand...

• Jan 24, 2023

Spaceboi Scaphandre said: Have you contacted Kagi about it? This would be bug report worthy. https://orionfeedback.org/ Click to expand...

• Feb 1, 2023

allan.nyholm said: I have sent in a report a few days ago. It's being investigated. Thank you for replying. Click to expand...

Oh Thank you!... do I missunderstood?  

it wasnt me

• Dec 31, 2023

The one thing I wish Orion had was bidirectional iCloud Keychain integration. Then again, I already have KeePass(XC)... I'll only need to transfer my login information back.  

it wasnt me said: The one thing I wish Orion had was bidirectional iCloud Keychain integration. Then again, I already have KeePass(XC)... I'll only need to transfer my login information back. Click to expand...

According to what I have read, Orion can only read from it, but not change entries?  

Orion Browser for iOS Is the Highly Customizable Browser I Was Looking For

MACSTORIES EXTRAS

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A couple of months ago, I tried using Orion Browser , by Kagi , as my main web browser on macOS. Orion is based on WebKit, just like Safari, and it looks a lot like Safari as well. However, it is supercharged with extra features, and most notably supports Chrome and Firefox extensions. Although I have since gone back to using Safari as my main browser on the Mac, I was quite pleased with the overall experience. Coming out of my disappointing experiment with Vivaldi , I was wondering whether Orion could also be a viable alternative to Safari on iOS, as a fully-featured and highly customizable web browser.

At first glance, Orion Browser for iOS resembles Safari. The address bar is in the bottom toolbar, and you can swipe on it to switch to adjacent tabs. Although the animations are not as smooth, most of the interactions in the app also feel a lot like Safari. This is a comforting feeling. Orion is not attempting to stand out with a radically different interface and vibrant colors. Instead, the place where Orion sets itself apart the app’s settings panel. The number of available toggles and options is so vast that I won’t be able to mention them all.

This story is for Club MacStories, Club MacStories+, and Club Premier members only.

Join the club and get access now., already a member sign in.

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Orion browser for macOS is now available in public beta, it supports Firefox and Chrome extensions

Orion is a new web browser for macOS that has entered public beta testing. The app from Kagi, uses Apple's Webkit engine and includes a lot of customization options.

Since it is based on the same engine as Safari, Orion has native support for Apple Silicon such as the M1 processor.

Orion browser for macOS - an overview

Orion has a built-in ad blocker and tracker blocker, which the company claims will block 90% of the ads. It uses the EasyList and EasyPrivacy filter lists. The developers recommend using uBlock Origin for complete protection, and disable the internal ad blocker from the Preferences > Websites > Content Blockers page.

This is where it gets interesting, Orion supports Firefox add-ons and Chrome extensions. It even has a small curated library of recommended add-ons that you can install.

Or you can go directly to the Chrome web store or Firefox's AMO to install the extension of your choice.

This is, in my opinion, the selling point of the app.

The Manage window lists all add-ons that you have installed, and also labels them as Firefox or Chrome, so you know which version of the plugin you are using.

Vertical Tabs

Orion has a vertical tree tabs view, that you can switch to by pressing Ctrl Command V. It hides the tab bar. The Vertical tab panel allows you to drag and drop tabs to reorganize them switch between tabs, and close them. You can resize the side panel as required, to display just the icons or the icons and the title.

The app supports Tab Groups, but its not what it sounds like. Hit the window button to the left of the address bar, and you can rename the group. Create a new one, and you will see that it actually creates a new Window. Make sure you name the group, if you want it to sync.

Sync and other features

Orion syncs your settings and saves them via your iCloud Drive. That makes for a good backup. The browser also supports Keychain for passwords, Focus Mode, and a low power mode, which can come in handy when your MacBook is running low on battery.

The browser supports blocking Autoplay Videos, just like Safari. You can set Orion to stay on top of other windows, watch videos in Picture-in-Picture mode.

The announcement article says the browser has zero telemetry. Orion browser does not share crash reports with the company be default, but it does have an option to send these reports, if you allow it to. It's an opt-in feature, which is always a nice thing to see.

Kagi Search

Kagi's founder, Vladimir Prelovac, has announced the availability of a new search engine called, Kagi . The company, which has its HQ in Palo Alto, CA, promises a privacy-friendly experience devoid of ads and trackers.

The free version will allow limited use (number of search queries), while the paid version will offer unlimited use. The service requires you to sign up for an account before you start using it. You can try a demo of Kagi Search on its website.

I have been using Orion sparingly over the past few weeks during the closed beta phase. But I have not used the Kagi search engine, so I cannot comment on the quality of web searches. The privacy policy seems to be good, which is a promising sign.

Orion+ browser

Kagi has announced that it will also offer a premium version of its browser, called Orion+. It does not offer special features per se, it is just a way of contributing to the project and getting a few perks like contacting the development team, and influencing the product's development. The announcement says that a Linux version of the browser is in the plans.

And now for the cons, Orion browser is not open source, but states that there are plans to make the source code available in the future. I think this might be the biggest hurdle for the browser to attract users.

The toolbar customization panel is a bit glitchy. I couldn't drop icons on the overflow window, as the browser minimized it whenever I clicked on an icon on the toolbar. I don't like the Tab Groups either, Vivaldi's implementation of it is so much better.

Orion browser's extension support is good, but not great. I used the browser with about a dozen extensions including Bitwarden, Dark Reader, Simple Translate, SponsorBlock, OneTab etc.

I only had trouble with the following extensions:

Auto Tab Discard - Shortcut not available in the Tab context menu. I had to use the add-on's button instead. behind! - Didn't work at all. Group Speed Dial - Did not render the new tab page properly, but the Options page worked. Undo Closed Tab - The add-on's right-click menu didn't display the list of closed tabs.

If a Firefox add-on doesn't work properly, try the Chrome version, and vice-versa. Overall, the extensions experience is a mixed bag, But, that's to be expected since the browser is still in beta phase.

Download Orion browser from the official website.

Is Orion browser worth using?

Yes, I'd say it's worth trying just for uBlock Origin, which is not possible with Safari. Orion is also pretty good in terms of battery life, and it is not surprising since it uses the Webkit engine, which is well optimized for MacBooks.

But, if you're a Firefox or Brave/Vivaldi/Edge/Chrome/Opera user who relies on a lot of extensions, you may have to give up on a couple of add-ons to switch to Orion.

Have you tried Orion browser?

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Good news. As a Mac and iOS user I appreciate that versions for both platforms are being built. Safari has never offered the richness of extensions of Chrome and Firefrox, and the ones that it does support have to be installed as Mac apps (ugh!). Safari was previously limited to bookmarks but can now synch passwords with iOS devices via iCloud keychain. I wonder if Kagi will use the same mechanism. Vivaldi shot themselves in the foot by failing to deliver an iOS version. For Mac users there’s no incentive to use a desktop browser that doesn’t synch with your mobile device.

I wish it would release on Windows and Linux too. AFAIK, both can use WebKit.

They plan to do so in the future (i.e., post 1.0).

So far my experience with Orion has been a little bit on the buggy side, and the complex extensions that, for me, are non-negotiables (e.g., Surfingkeys or Tridactyl) don’t work at all well. With the bugs ironed out, though, and extension support being 1:1 with Fx/Chrome, I anticipate this becoming my daily driver—especially when paired with Kagi search, which so far has the best results of any privacy-oriented search engine I have used.

I played around with Orion a bit. It seems to have great potential offering the best of 3 worlds: Safari, Brave/Chrome, and Librewolf/Firefox.

The are still a number of websites it could not open for no apparent reason, considering I had my extensions disabled. And the overflow for extension icons does not work. But hey, it’s early days yet.

Great review!

> The toolbar customization panel is a bit glitchy. I couldn’t drop icons on the overflow window, as the browser minimized it whenever I clicked on an icon on the toolbar.

Note that his is fixed in the last beta (0.99.115), please update.

@Vladimir Prelovac: yes, that is fixed, but the icons on the overflow window remain on the toolbar, so they occur in 2 places now.

> Since it is based on the same engine as Safari, Orion has native support for Apple Silicon such as the M1 processor.

There is no relation. Other browsers like Firefox or Chrome also have native support for Apple Silicon.

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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Free travel pass, contact information.

The Free Travel Scheme is administered by the Department of Social Protection (DSP) and all queries about the scheme should be directed to the Department by emailing [email protected] or calling 071 915 7100.

More details on the Free Travel Scheme can be found on their website.

About the Free Travel Pass 

The Free Travel Pass allows holders to travel free of charge on public transport services in Ireland including Bus Éireann, Dublin Bus, Go-Ahead Ireland, Iarnród Éireann, Luas, TFI Local Link and Kilkenny Services operated by City Direct. The Free Travel Pass is also accepted by many commercial bus services.

You can find a full list of all operators and routes where the Free Travel Pass is accepted on gov.ie .

If you are using a PSC Free Travel Card, please hold the card to the validator until you hear a beep or see the green light.

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Find out about Ireland's services and amenities for visitors with special needs.

Ireland is delighted to welcome visitors with special needs and reduced mobility, and services and amenities are always improving

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Getting around.

• Car Parking

Accommodation

Attractions.

The National Journey Planner system provides door-to-door information on all available travel options for journeys to, from, and within the Republic of Ireland. In addition to this, you'll find general travel information for people with mobility difficulties.

Accessible taxis

Wheelchair-accessible taxis in the Republic of Ireland have a wheelchair icon on the roof of the vehicle, so they have been specifically modified to have specialist equipment including ramps, wheelchair anchorages and suitable seatbelts.

The National Transport Authority maintains a register of all wheelchair-accessible taxis and hackneys. If you have difficulty obtaining an accessible service, the Authority may be able to provide you with contact details for an operator in your locality. Call its Information Line on +353 761 064000.

There are currently four types of taxi identified by the color of taxi plate; green, yellow, white and blue.

White and blue licence plates are issued to some taxis that operate like buses – they charge passengers an individual fare on some routes. These taxis are not required to have a meter but are wheelchair accessible.

A yellow licence plate means that the taxi can be hailed in the street or picked up from designated taxi ranks when the roof light is on. These taxis are wheelchair accessible and will have a taxi meter.

A white licence plate means the taxi can be pre-booked or hailed in areas outside a five-mile radius of Belfast city center. These taxis are not required to be wheelchair accessible or have a meter.

A green licence plate means that the taxi must be pre-booked either in person, at a depot, or by phone. The majority of these are not wheelchair accessible, so it is best to request a wheelchair-accessible taxi if you need this, although this is not guaranteed.

Motability Ireland provides car rentals to reduced mobility customers for use all over the island of Ireland. Their vehicles come with fully comprehensive insurance and 24-hour AA roadside assistance. The staff can even organise airport/ferry collections and drop-offs for you.

There is a range of parking facilities available to people with disabilities in towns and cities throughout Ireland. They are always located in "prime" parking spots beside building entrances, in city/town centers, etc. These parking bays are clearly marked for use by people with disabilities by both signs and road markings.

Although local authorities have no legal obligation to provide parking bays for people with disabilities, a certain number of spaces are available in all local authority on-street parking areas, local authority parking lots and public building parking lots. The location of these spaces will be laid down in local authority bye-laws.

For more information on disabled car spaces contact the local authority/council of the area in which you’re visiting.

Disabled Holidays is a great resource with a list of accommodation options that offer disabled facilities. Disabled Friendly Hotels provides a wonderful database of hotels with features that accommodate special needs. Each hotel partner is required to provide information on its accessibility and services, and the site includes reviews to confirm the validity of this information.

Accessible Ireland lists many tourist attractions with disabled amenities in Ireland. Some of Ireland’s historic sites, such as abbeys, castles and ruins, may not be as accessible as modern attractions such as Titanic Belfast. Castles and towers may have a first floor that is accessible; however, they are less likely to have lifts. Heritage Ireland manages many of Ireland’s heritage sites, providing information on each site’s accessibility. In Northern Ireland, the National Trust runs sites such as the Giant’s Causeway and has great access information for each site including parking, toilets and the grounds.

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Travelling on public transport with a disability or reduced mobility

Introduction, travel assistance scheme, jam card and app, please offer me a seat badge and card, luas tram services, more information.

Public transport companies offer accessibility services for people with a disability or reduced mobility. The largest public transport operators are listed below and this page provides accessibility information for them.

Bus Éireann

• Go-Ahead Ireland (Private bus company)

This page also gives an overview of the Travel Assistance Scheme (greater Dublin area and Cork), the Jam Card and App and the Please Offer Me a Seat Badge and Card.

Planning a journey

Before you start your journey, you can use Transport for Ireland’s (TFI) online journey planner to plan your journey.

The journey planner will give you information about bus and rail routes all over Ireland. It will also tell you if a service is wheelchair accessible.

If you can’t travel alone, you may be able to get a free travel pass for your travel companion. You can get more information in our page on free travel in Ireland .

The Travel Assistance Scheme helps people with disabilities to use public transport in the greater Dublin area and in Cork city. The scheme is free and is available for people over 18 years.

Under the scheme, a travel assistant can travel with you the first few times you are travelling and offer advice on how to plan your journey. The assistant will help you get used to travelling along that route on your own. You can contact them when you are starting a new route.

The Travel Assistance Scheme in Dublin is available for Dublin Bus , Go-Ahead Ireland , DART and Luas services. It is run by Dublin Bus, but they provide the service across different transport providers.

To find out more, contact Dublin Bus by:

• Phone: 01 703 3204
• Email: [email protected]

The Travel Assistance Scheme in Cork is available for Cork city buses and Iarnród Éireann commuter trains.

To find out more, contact Bus Éireann by:

• Phone: 0818 836611

What is the JAM Card and JAM App?

The JAM Card is a card or app that tells other passengers that you need a little more time because you have a condition or a disability. It can be a physical card or an app on your phone or both.

This card helps passengers with a communication barrier to say that they need “just a minute” and to ask for patience. The JAM Card and App are free.

How can I get a JAM Card?

You can get it in any of the following three ways:

• Order a physical card online .
• Phone the NOW Group (based in UK) on 0044 28 9043 6400.
• Download the app from the Play Store or Apple .

How do I use it?

You show your JAM Card to the person that you are interacting with (for example, the bus driver). The card says ‘Just A Minute’ on one side, and you can choose which message you would like on the other side of your card.

The message could say any of the following:

• I have autism
• I am autistic
• I have a condition
• I have a learning difficulty or a disability
• I have an intellectual disability

With the app, you can choose your own message.

Where can I use it?

You can use it on public transport and in shops, banks, cafés, restaurants, hotels and museums.

Find out more at jamcard.org or the Transport for Ireland website.

What is the Please Offer Me a Seat Badge and Card?

The badge and card are for people with invisible disabilities to use when using public transport. If you have an invisible disability and have difficulty standing while using public transport, the badge or card will help you to subtly alert fellow passengers that you would welcome being offered a seat.

Some examples of invisible disabilities are fibromyalgia, autism, head injuries, chronic pain, poor balance, and multiple sclerosis, along with other conditions.

How can I get it?

You can contact your local TFI public transport operator to get one.

You can use the badge on Dublin Bus, Bus Éireann, Iarnród Éireann—Irish Rail, Luas, Go-Ahead Ireland, and TFI Local Link services.

Find out more at the Transport for Ireland website.

Wheelchair access on buses

On all Dublin bus buses, there is one space for a person using a wheelchair. A wheelchair can be up to 70cm wide and 120cm long.

You should get on and get off the bus by the front doors, as the ramp is only at the door near the driver. When you get on the bus, you can ask the driver to give you extra time to get to your seat before the bus pulls away from the stop.

To leave the bus, press the button with the wheelchair symbol on it, next to the wheelchair space, shortly before your stop. This bell has its own sound which lets the driver know that you wish to leave the bus.

You can find more information on wheelchair accessibility from Dublin Bus .

Many of Bus Eireann services are wheelchair accessible, but some are not. You can find a list of accessible routes on the Bus Éireann website.

Mobility scooters on buses

To travel on Dublin Bus with your mobility scooter you must have a permit. This is because some mobility scooters are too big to fit on Dublin Bus buses. To find out if your scooter is the correct size and to arrange a permit, contact Dublin Bus’s Travel Assistance.

You can contact Dublin Bus’s Travel Assistance by:

• Ringing Travel Assistance at 01 703 3204
• Emailing [email protected] .

For Bus Éireann, you should call 0818 836 611 to see if they can accommodate your mobility scooter.

If you have a vision impairment

All buses must stop if there is a person with a long cane or a guide dog at the bus stop. All new buses have audio announcements which will tell you the next stop.

If you have a hearing impairment

Dublin bus provide Real Time Passenger Information with on street signs at approximately 500 bus stops. Bus Éireann have real time information on their website. There is a TFI real time app which combines all real time information Bus Éireann, Dublin Bus, GO-Ahead Ireland and Iarnród Éireann and Luas.

Guide dogs and assistance dogs on buses

Guide dogs or assistance dogs are allowed on all buses.

If you want to make a complaint

You can make a complaint to Dublin Bus’s Inquiry Officer by:

• Post: Dublin Bus Inquiry Officer, Operations Department, Dublin Bus, 59 Upper O Connell St. Dublin 1.

You must state which Section of the Disability Act 2005 the complaint refers to. Your complaint must clearly outline the reason and include any relevant information. See the complaints section on Dublin bus .

You can make a complaint to Bus Éireann by:

• Telephone: 01 8366111

See the customer information section on Bus Éireann .

If you need assistance to travel by rail , you should contact the relevant stations first . Contact Irish Rail at least 24 hours before your journey and give them details of your travel plans.

For support, you can:

• Call: 01 836 6222 (Monday – Friday 8:30am – 6:00pm excluding public holidays).

Give details of your travel plans

When contacting the station include the following information:

• Date and time of travel
• Departure station
• Arrival station and if you need to change trains on your journey
• The nature of your disability
• Assistance required
• How you will travel to and from departure and arrival stations such as taxi, private car and whether someone is meeting you at your destination
• If you will travel alone or with someone
• If you need help arriving or departing from the station
• Any other details to assist railway staff or details you would like to clarify

If it is not possible to give notice to Irish Rail, they will do their best to provide assistance. If there is a change or you need to cancel your plans, let Irish Rail know. Staff can then assist others.

Wheelchair access and mobility scooters on trains

Wheelchair accessible spaces are limited on each train. It is important that you book your space before you travel. If you use a mobility scooter, contact the station to ensure your scooter can be accommodated.

Accessibility ramps for train access

At some stations there is a gap between the platform and the carriages. Ramps can be used to help you on or off trains if needed. You should contact Irish Rail 24 hours before you travel to ensure staff are available to help you.

Disabled car parking at train stations

All station car parks have designated car parking spaces for people with a Disabled Person’s Parking Card . You can get information on station accessibility on each station’s webpage .

Most mainline and suburban and all DART stations have public address systems giving details of trains and services for people with visual impairments. Tactile tiles are in place in some stations to help people with visual impairments. Braille-coded buttons and a talking lift are available in newer station lifts.

Guide dogs and assistance dogs on trains

Guide or Assistance dogs are allowed on all Irish rail services and in train stations.

If you want to make a complaint under the 2005 Disability Act , contact [email protected] .

You should contact Luas before you travel if you will need assistance. The Travel Assistance Scheme is available on the Luas, (see ‘Travel Assistance Scheme’ above). Travel assistance is free and you can request it during all Luas operating hours.

To arrange assistance, contact the Luas Customer Service office by phone on 0818 300 604 or by email [email protected] . You should give details of your travel plans. See ‘Rail’ above for guidance on the details that you should give. If there is a change or you need to cancel your plans, let the Luas know. Staff are then available to help others.

Wheelchair accessibility on the Luas

All Luas trams and stops are wheelchair-accessible. Each tram has a low floor and level threshold with a minimal gap between the floor of the tram and the edge of the platform.

If you are using a wheelchair, get on the Luas through the double doors in the middle of each carriage as they are closest to the priority seating and wheelchair area. Make sure that you are facing the rear of the tram while travelling.

There are 2 designated spaces per tram, which can cater for up to 4 wheelchair users. There are signs which say that these spaces are for wheelchair users. There is also enough space in the entry and exit areas on the trams for additional wheelchair users.

Mobility scooters on the Luas

You can bring a mobility scooter on board the Luas.

Each tram has electronic displays, so you can tell where you are on your journey.

All trams are fitted with an induction loop for passengers using hearing aids equipped with the T-switch. If you use a hearing aid, you can hear announcements in the middle of the tram.

All trams are fitted with a bell which rings when the tram is approaching and leaving a Luas platform.

There are automatic audio announcements on board with the names of each stop together with other pre-recorded messages.

If in doubt while on board, speak with the driver to confirm your location. You can use the emergency passenger communications device on the doorpost to the right of the double doors to speak with the driver.

Disabled car parking at Luas

There are seven Luas Park and Ride car parking facilities. Each has designated spaces located as close to the Luas platforms as possible. You must display your Disabled Person's Parking Card .

Guide dogs and assistance dog on-board a Luas

You can bring your guide dog or your assistance dog on the Luas.

If you want to make a complaint under the 2005 Disability Act .

• Call the Luas Customer Service Centre on 0818 300 604
• Write to: Luas Customer Service, Luas Depot, Red Cow, Clondalkin, Dublin 22, D22 C5P3

You can get more information about accessible travel in Ireland on Transport for Ireland’s website . TFI are supporting the AsIAm charity with a campaign, Prepare Me As I Am , for public transport. This gives people who have autism useful tools to help them use public transport.

You can check the facilities for passengers with a disability at any Irish rail station .

You can also get general information about getting to and from Dublin airport .

Related documents

• Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability Grants for alterations that need to be made to a home to make it suitable for a person with a physical, sensory or intellectual disability or a mental health difficulty. 1605.0394
• Caring for a child with a disability Find out what supports and services are available to parents, guardians and carers of children with disabilities 1495.2341
• Mobility training for people with visual impairments If you have a visual impairment, orientation and mobility training can help you develop a range of skills that will make it easier to move around safely. Types of mobility aid and sources of training are described here. 1405.4021

If you have a question about this topic you can contact the Citizens Information Phone Service on 0818 07 4000 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm).

You can also contact your local Citizens Information Centre .

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• Free Travel
• January 11, 2019

Everyone aged 66 and over, legally resident and living permanently in the State, is entitled to the Free Travel Scheme. Some people under 66 also qualify. If you qualify for free travel, you are issued with a card that you must carry with you when using public transport. In some cases, a Free Travel Companion Card is available which allows a person to travel with the holder (if they are unable to travel alone). Free Travel Cards are non-transferable and can only be used by the named person.

Free travel is available on all State public transport (bus, rail and Dublin’s LUAS service) with some exceptions.

Free travel is also available on a limited number of services operated by private bus transport companies. Private bus transport operators that have opted in to the Free Travel Scheme accept free travel cards. You should contact the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection to check whether your private bus operator accepts free travel cards – see ‘Where to apply’ below.

If you abuse your entitlement to free travel, the Department will review your entitlement to a Free Travel Card. For example, abuse could include wrongfully presenting a card for travel or engaging in anti-social behaviour while using the card. When you use your Free Travel Card you must also follow the rules that apply to your mode of transport.

SAFE registration and Public Services Card

The SAFE registration process (pdf) is used to establish and verify your identity. Your free travel pass will be contained in the  Public Services Card (PSC)  that issues following this registration. You must undergo SAFE registration when requested to do so by the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. Your entitlement to free travel will be disallowed or withdrawn if you don’t register.

If you are entitled to free travel, when you are issued with your new Public Services Card it will also be your Free Travel Card. ( The Public Services Card will eventually replace the Free Travel Pass .) The card will have F-T printed in a yellow octagon in the top-left-hand corner of the card.  You can see a sample card on welfare.ie (pdf) .

You must show your Public Services Card to the travel operator when you are travelling on public transport. (In some cases, you may be asked to scan your Public Services Card, though not all transport operators have this facility.) When you receive your new Public Services Card, you must return your old free travel pass to the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (see ‘Where to apply’ below).

There are 3 categories of free travel:

• If  FT-P  is written on your Public Services Card, you personally are entitled to free travel.
• If  FT+S  is written on your Public Services Card, your spouse, civil partner or  cohabitant  can join you for free when you are travelling (they cannot travel for free alone). A cohabitant is one of a couple who live together, but are not married or in a civil partnership. Your spouse, civil partner or cohabitant’s name will not be on the card.
• If  FT+C  is written on your Public Services Card, a companion (over 16) can travel with you for free (because you are unable to travel alone for medical reasons).

Read FAQs on the Public Services Card and free travel (pdf) . Note that the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection is no longer issuing paper passes.

You can also read ‘ How to use your public services card for free travel’ (pdf) .

Spouses, civil partners, cohabitants and companions

If you are entitled to free travel and you are married, in a civil partnership or cohabiting, you are entitled to a Free Travel Card which allows your partner to accompany you free of charge when travelling. (This does not apply to people under age 66 who are getting  Carer’s Allowance  or who are nominated carers for people getting Constant Attendance Allowance or Prescribed Relatives Allowance from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection).

If you are unable to travel alone, you may get a  Free Travel Companion Card . This allows you to be accompanied by any person over 16 years of age, free of charge. To qualify for a Free Travel Companion Card, you must satisfy certain conditions. Entitlement to the Companion Free Travel Card may be subject to periodic review. You can read about these conditions in the  Free Travel Scheme guidelines .

Senior SmartPass for travelling in Northern Ireland

The All Ireland Free Travel Scheme allows a Free Travel cardholder (those aged 66 and older) to travel free of charge on all bus and rail services within Northern Ireland using a  Senior Smartpass  card. Similarly, Northern Ireland Senior Smartpass holders are entitled to travel for free on services in Ireland using their existing Senior Smartpass. If your Free Travel Card allows you to be accompanied by a spouse, civil partner or cohabitant or companion, they may continue to travel with you for free on cross-border journeys but they cannot accompany you for free on public transport within Northern Ireland.

Free Travel cardholders wishing to avail of the All Ireland Free Travel scheme within Northern Ireland must first get a Senior SmartPass card. To get a Senior SmartPass card you must fill in an application form (FTNI1). It is  not possible to get this form online . To get a form you must contact your local Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office.

The application form must be filled in with  black ink  only and returned  in person  (not posted) to your Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office. You must bring the following items with your application form to your Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office:

• Your current Free Travel Pass/Public Services Card and
• Evidence of your address, (for example, a gas, electricity, phone bill or bank statement) and
• Evidence of your identity, (for example, your driving licence, passport or another form of photo identification) and
• A recent passport standard colour photograph.

It may take up to six weeks to process your application. However you can only apply 3 weeks before your 66th birthday. If you apply more than 3 weeks before your 66th birthday, your application will be rejected. There is further information on the  extension of the Free Travel Scheme .

You should continue to use your current Free Travel Card for travel in this State.

Renewing a Senior SmartPass

Your Senior SmartPass will expire after 5 years.

• If you have electronically used your card within the last 2 years, you will get a new card automatically in the post from  Translink  when your card expires.
• If you have not used your card in the last 2 years, you will be sent a renewal application form to fill out. (The renewal form is not the same as a first-time application and you do not need to supply a photograph.)
• If you have never used your card, you will not hear from Translink at all. If you wish to get it renewed, you must contact Translink on 048 9075 9129 who will send you a renewal application.

Brexit and the Senior SmartPass

On  31 January 2020 the UK exited the EU .  Senior SmartPass  holders can continue to travel in Northern Ireland on the bus and train.

COVID-19 and the Free Travel Scheme

The National Transport Authority (NTA) has confirmed that all transport operators are allowing customers with a PSC Free Travel Card to continue to avail of the Free Travel Scheme during the COVID-19 public health emergency, even if the card has expired.

You may be entitled to free travel if you are legally resident and permanently living in the State and:

• You are aged 66 or over
• You are getting Disability Allowance,  Blind Pension ,  Carer’s Allowance  or an  Invalidity Pension  from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection
• You have been getting Incapacity Supplement or Workmen’s Compensation with Disablement Pension for at least 12 months
• You are blind or visually impaired and meet the medical conditions for Blind Pension
• You are a specified carer for a person getting Constant Attendance Allowance or Prescribed Relative’s Allowance from the Department
• You are getting a social security invalidity payment, or similar payment, from another EU member state or from a country with which Ireland has a bilateral social security agreement for at least 12 months
• You are a widow or widower or a surviving civil partner aged 60 or over whose late spouse/civil partner held a free travel pass and who is getting one of the following payments: Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Partner’s (Contributory) Pension, Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Partner’s (Non-Contributory) Pension, One-Parent Family Payment, Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Partner’s Pension under the Occupational Injuries Benefit Scheme or a similar social security pension/benefit from an EU member state or a country with which Ireland has a bilateral social security agreement, or an ordinary Garda widow’s pension.
• You have confirmed your identity through the  SAFE registration process (pdf)  when requested to do so

Where free travel can be used

Free travel is available on most Iarnród Éireann, Bus Éireann, Dublin Bus, DART and Luas Services and on certain private bus and ferry services. Free travel does not include some  special services such as Dublin Bus AIRLINK services . You may also travel free of charge on certain cross-border services between Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Free travel is also available on the Dublin Bus NITELINK service.

If you are permanently living on any of the Aran Islands, you may get up to 12 single (or 6 return) air trips each year between the islands and the mainland. People who live permanently on Tory Island (Co. Donegal) are entitled to 8 (or 4 return) free journeys on the seasonal helicopter service operating between the island and the mainland.

There are no restrictions on the times you can use your Free Travel Card.

Working and keeping entitlement to Free Travel

Since 6 April 2017, under the  Make Work Pay  initiative, if you move from a long-term disability payment (see list below) to a job, you can keep your entitlement to Free Travel for a period of 5 years, provided you have registered for a Public Services Card.

•Disability Allowance

•Invalidity Pension

•Partial Capacity Benefit (from Invalidity Pension)

•Disablement Benefit paid along with Incapacity Supplement

•Transfer from Disability Allowance or Invalidity Pension to a Community Employment, SOLAS or Back to Work scheme.

How to apply

If you are aged 66 or over and are getting a social welfare pension, the Free Travel Card will issue automatically if you have confirmed your identity through the SAFE registration process when requested to do so. If you have not SAFE registered, you will be requested to do so before your Free Travel Card issues to you.

If you are under age 66 and have confirmed your identity through the SAFE registration process, you will get a Free Travel Card automatically when you are awarded an Invalidity Pension, a Blind Pension, Disability Allowance or Carer’s Allowance. If you have not SAFE registered, you will be requested to do so before your Free Travel Card issues to you.

In all other circumstances, you must apply for free travel by completing a  Free Travel application form FT1 (pdf) .

You can get this form and additional information from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection – see ‘Where to apply’ below. The form is also available at  your local post office .

If you are married or in a civil partnership and either of you apply for free travel, or are issued a card automatically, the appropriate type of card (to allow your spouse or civil partner to accompany you free of charge) will be issued. If you are cohabiting, you must apply for this type of card by completing PART 2 of the application form above.

If you are unable to travel alone, you apply for a Free Travel Companion pass separately, using either an  Over 70 Companion pass form (pdf)  or an  Under 70 Companion pass form (pdf) .

Lost or damaged Free Travel Passes

There are currently 2 types of Free Travel Pass – a paper Free Travel Pass and a Public Services Card Free Travel (with F-T written in the top left-hand corner). Paper passes are no longer being issued so if you need a replacement for a lost or damaged paper pass you must undergo SAFE registration and get a  Public Services Card .

If your Public Services Card Free Travel is lost, stolen or damaged, you should telephone 1890 837000 to request a replacement card.

Where to apply

Free travel section.

Social Welfare Services College Road Sligo Ireland

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Tips for Travelers with Disabilities in Ireland

For travelers with disabilities, Ireland is a mixed bag. Its modern buildings and cities are generally accessible, but many of its buildings are historic, and those often lack wheelchair access. Trains can be accessed by wheelchairs but only with assistance. If you plan to travel by train in Ireland, be sure to check out Iarnród Éireann's website (www.irishrail.ie), which includes services for travelers with disabilities. A mobility-impaired liaison officer (tel. 01/703-3299) can arrange assistance for travelers with disabilities if given 24-hour notice prior to the departure time.

If you're conducting research prior to your trip, one of the best Irish-based online resources is www.disability.ie .

For advice on travel to Northern Ireland, contact Disability Action, Portside Business Park, 189 Airport Rd. W., Belfast BT3 9ED (tel. 028/9029-7880; www.disabilityaction.org). The Northern Ireland Tourist Board also publishes a helpful annual Information Guide to Accessible Accommodation, available from any of its offices worldwide.

Finding accessible lodging can be tricky in Ireland. Many of the buildings here are hundreds of years old, and older hotels, small guesthouses, and landmark buildings still have steps outside and in. The National Rehabilitation Board of Ireland, 24-25 Clyde Rd., Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 (tel. 01/608-0400 ), publishes several guides to accessible guesthouses, the best of which is Guide to Accessible Accommodation in Ireland ).

Many travel agencies offer customized tours and itineraries for travelers with disabilities. Among them are Flying Wheels Travel (tel. 507/451-5005; www.flyingwheelstravel.com), Access-Able Travel Source (tel. 303/232-2979; www.access-able.com), and Accessible Journeys (tel. 800/846-4537 or 610/521-0339; www.disabilitytravel.com).

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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Full Information

Free travel scheme, free travel scheme.

Everyone aged 66 and over, legally resident and living permanently in the State (Republic of Ireland), is entitled to the Free Travel Scheme. Some people under 66 also qualify. If you qualify for Free Travel, you will be issued a card from the Department of Social Protection. You must carry your Free Travel Card with you when using public transport. In some cases, a Free Travel Companion Card is available, which allows a person to travel for free with the holder (if they are unable to travel alone). Free Travel Cards are non-transferable and can only be used by the named person.

If you abuse your entitlement to Free Travel, the Department of Social Protection will review your entitlement to a Free Travel Card. For example, abuse could include wrongfully presenting a card for travel or engaging in anti-social behaviour while using the card. When you use your Free Travel Card, you must also follow the rules that apply to your mode of transport.

The  SAFE registration process establishes and verifies your identity. Your Free Travel Pass will be contained in the Public Services Card (PSC) that is issued following the SAFE registration process. You must undergo SAFE registration when requested to do so by the Department of Social Protection. Your entitlement to Free Travel will be disallowed or withdrawn if you don’t register.

If you are entitled to Free Travel, when you are issued with your new Public Services Card, it will also be your Free Travel Card. ( The Public Services Card will eventually replace the Free Travel Pass .) The card will have “F-T” printed in a yellow octagon in the top-left-hand corner of the card. 

You must show your Public Services Card to the travel operator when you are travelling on public transport. When you receive your new Public Services Card, you must return your old Free Travel Pass to the Department of Social Protection (see ‘Where to apply’ below).

There are three categories of Free Travel:

• If  FT-P is written on your Public Services Card, you personally are entitled to Free Travel.
• If  FT+S  is written on your Public Services Card, your spouse, partner or  cohabitant can join you for free when you travel (they cannot travel for free alone). Your spouse, partner or cohabitant’s name will not be on the card.

Note that the Department of Social Protection is no longer issuing paper passes.

If you are entitled to Free Travel and you are married, in a civil partnership or cohabiting, you are entitled to a Free Travel Card which allows your partner to accompany you free of charge when travelling. (This does not apply to people under age 66 who are getting Carer’s Allowance or who are nominated carers for people getting Constant Attendance Allowance or Prescribed Relatives Allowance).

If you are unable to travel alone, you may get a Free Travel Companion Card. This allows you to be accompanied by any person over 16 years of age, free of charge. You must satisfy certain conditions to qualify for a Free Travel Companion Card. Entitlement to the Companion Free Travel Card may be subject to periodic review. You can read about these conditions here .

You may be entitled to Free Travel if you are legally resident and permanently living in the State and:

• You are aged 66 or over;
• You are getting Disability Allowance,  Blind Pension ,  Carer’s Allowance  or an  Invalidity Pension ;
• You have been getting Incapacity Supplement or Workmen’s Compensation with Disablement Pension for at least 12 months;
• You are blind or visually impaired and meet the medical conditions for Blind Pension;
• You are a specified carer for a person getting Constant Attendance Allowance or Prescribed Relative’s Allowance;
• You are getting a social security invalidity payment, or similar payment, from another EU member state or from a country with which Ireland has a bilateral social security agreement for at least 12 months;
• You are a widow or widower or a surviving civil partner aged 60 or over whose late spouse/civil partner held a Free Travel Pass and who is getting one of the following payments: Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Partner’s (Contributory) Pension, Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Partner’s (Non-Contributory) Pension, One-Parent Family Payment, Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Partner’s Pension under the Occupational Injuries Benefit Scheme or a similar social security pension/benefit from an EU member state or a country with which Ireland has a bilateral social security agreement, or an ordinary Garda widow’s pension.
• You have confirmed your identity through the  SAFE registration process when requested to do so.

• Disability Allowance

• Invalidity Pension

• Partial Capacity Benefit (from Invalidity Pension)

• Disablement Benefit paid along with Incapacity Supplement

• Transfer from Disability Allowance or Invalidity Pension to a Community Employment, SOLAS or Back to Work scheme.

If you are aged 66 or over and are getting a social welfare pension, the Free Travel Card will be issued automatically if you have confirmed your identity through the SAFE registration process when requested to do so. If you are not SAFE registered, you will be requested to do so before your Free Travel Card is issued to you.

If you are under age 66 and have confirmed your identity through the SAFE registration process, you will get a Free Travel Card automatically when you are awarded an Invalidity Pension, a Blind Pension, Disability Allowance or Carer’s Allowance. If you are not SAFE registered, you will be requested to do so before your Free Travel Card is issued to you.

In all other circumstances, you must apply for Free Travel by completing a Free Travel application form FT1 (pdf) .

You can get this form and additional information from the Department of Social Protection – see ‘Where to apply’ below. The form is also available at your local post office .

If you are married or in a civil partnership and either of you applies for Free Travel or are issued a card automatically, the appropriate type of card (to allow your spouse or civil partner to accompany you free of charge) will be issued. If you are cohabiting, you must apply for this type of card by completing PART 2 of the application form quoted above.

If you are unable to travel alone, you should apply for a Free Travel Companion Pass separately, using either an Over 70 Companion Pass form (pdf)  or an  Under 70 Companion Pass form (pdf) .

There are currently two types of Free Travel Pass: a paper Free Travel Pass and a Public Services Card Free Travel (with F-T written in the top left-hand corner). Paper passes are no longer being issued, so if you need a replacement for a lost or damaged paper pass, you must undergo SAFE registration and get a Public Services Card .

If your Public Services Card Free Travel is lost, stolen or damaged, you should telephone 0818 837000  to request a replacement card.

Free Travel Section Social Welfare Services College Road, Sligo, Ireland

If you wish to talk to someone face-to-face about your entitlements, you can visit your local Citizens Information Centre ,  Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office .

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Social welfare and entitlements

There are a number of state entitlements available to people living with sight loss. For further information about any of the below entitlements you can contact the Citizens Information phone service on 0761 07 4000 or contact your local Citizens Information office. You can find your local office on this website .

Blind Pension

The Blind Pension is a means tested payment for people between the ages of 18 and 66 who are blind or have a severe vision impairment, as verified by an ophthalmologist. It is a weekly payment from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection, it can be collected at your local post office or paid directly into your bank account. Click here for more information about the Blind Pension .

If you qualify for the blind pension you will automatically qualify for a Free Travel Pass and Companion Free Travel Pass. A Free Travel Pass allows free travel on all public transport ad some private providers throughout Ireland. A Companion Free Travel Pass allows a companion over the age of 16 to travel for free with the person who holds the pass. The pass is issued as part of the Public Services Card. Click here for more information about the Free Travel Pass.

Disability Allowance

The disability allowance is also a means tested weekly payment from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. It is paid at the same rate as the blind pension but is applicable from the age of 16. Click here for more information about the Disability Allowance .

Blind Welfare Allowance

The Blind Welfare Allowance is a weekly payment paid by the HSE to people over 18 who are blind or vision impaired and satisfy a means test. You may qualify for the Blind Welfare Allowance if you are in receipt of the Blind Pension or if your income is below the combined rate of Blind Pension and Blind Welfare Allowance.

You will need to supply a letter from your ophthalmologist or from the NCBI to confirm that you meet the requirements for registration as legally blind in order to be eligible for this payment. Click here for more information about the Blind Welfare Allowance.

Household Benefits Package

If you are in receipt of the Blind Pension or Disability Allowance, you may also qualify for the Household Benefits Package. This includes a free TV Licence and a contribution to the cost of your natural gas or electricity. Click here for more information about the Household Benefits Package .

Disabled Person’s Parking Card

If you are registered as blind with NCBI you are entitled to a Disabled Persons Parking Card, which allows the car you are travelling in to use public disability parking spaces. This card can be used within the 28 member states of the EU and is also recognised in the US and Canada. The scheme is administered by the Disabled Drivers Association of Ireland (DDAI) and the Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA). Click here for more information about the Disabled Person’s Parking Card .

Free Directory Enquiries

A free directory enquiries service is available for people with disabilities, including people who are blind or vision impaired. While it is free to look up a number, if the service connects you directly to the number you will be charged. The free directory enquiries number is 196, however you must first register for the service by calling 1800 574 574 or by downloading and completing this form .

Treatment benefit scheme

If you make PRSI contributions, you may qualify for dental, hearing or optical services under the treatment benefit scheme .

Other Social Protection Payments

There are other social protection payments available which may be of use and these are listed on the Citizens Information Board website .

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Where do I find Information on the Free Travel Pass?

• If you wish to book onto a train see our handy guide  Booking a 'Free Travel Pass or Valid Ticket' option  
• For information on how to travel with a Free Travel Pass on rail services see our FAQ  Do I need to get a ticket to accompany my Free Travel/Public Services Card?
• For more information on how to use your Public Service Card for free travel check out this TFI How to use your PSC for free travel leaflet  or visit freetravel.ie
• For information on what a Free Travel Pass is go to the Department of Social Protection website , contact your local Social Welfare Office or Call their Information Line at 1890 500 000 (from the Republic of Ireland only) or 00353 71 915 7100 (from Northern Ireland or overseas).

All free travel passes are issued by the Department of Social Protection not by the transport provider. Free travel passes are non-transferrable and can only be used by the named person. You cannot use your Free Travel Pass on services not listed in the official timetable, on tours and special rail services. You can only use your Free Travel Pass on all regular timetable services.

Free public transport scheme: ‘If they tried to take it away, we’d fight it’

Ireland’s free travel scheme is ‘an extraordinary social programme’, believe older users of bus and rail services.

‘I get great value out of it,’ says Nell O’Neill (right) and Anne Carroll. Photograph: Jennifer O’Connell

Just shy of 50 million journeys were taken under Ireland’s free travel scheme in 2018, a 30 per cent increase in eight years. The scheme, which allows the over-66s, their spouses, and people on disability allowance or carer’s allowance, to travel free of charge on buses, trams, trains and some ferry services, has never been more popular.

But the publication of these figures has led to fears it may be becoming a victim of its own success.

One of the roughly five million passengers who will use their free travel pass to journey by train this year is Nell O’Neill. She is getting ready to board the 11am from Waterford to Heuston Station in Dublin, after a weekend in the city with her five sisters-in-law. “I don’t use it, I abuse it,” she jokes. “I get great value out of it.”

'I've a friend that lives on Valentia island, and she'd come over and meet me for lunch. Five hours in Killarney and I'm back that evening. And I'll sleep the next day.'

She doesn’t drive, so “I use it constantly in Dublin – the bus, the Dart, the Luas. And I travel up and down the country to see relations”.

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Her sister-in-law, Bridget McCabe, lives in Cavan and relies on the hourly bus service to Dublin. “I would be lost without it,” she says. “It’s given us all a new lease on life,” adds O’Neill.

‘I paid my taxes’

The scheme was originally intended for older people with vision impairment and their carers, but in April 1967, then-taoiseach Charles Haughey extended it to everyone over 66.

A group of older people interviewed by The Irish Times at the time doubted that they would have much use for it. David Doyle (77) told the newspaper he was “too old to go anywhere by train. I would not feel a bit inclined to take off for a look at Killarney,” he said. “I was in it a couple of times as a young man, but I might go astray now.”

In the 52 years since, however, the scheme has proven the early sceptics wrong. In all, 49.08 million journeys were taken on it last year, up 1.5 million on the previous year, and a 30 per cent increase on 2010.

Anne Hayden, in her late 70s, is waiting in Waterford to board the train to Dublin. She uses her free travel card “a lot. I’m on the train twice a week. I go to Kildare, Newbridge, Dublin. Or I get the bus to Cork or Wexford”.

Sometimes, she says, she gets the train from Waterford to Killarney for lunch. “I’ve a friend that lives on Valentia island, and she’d come over and meet me for lunch. Five hours in Killarney and I’m back that evening. And I’ll sleep the next day.”

Like most of the users who spoke to The Irish Times about the scheme, she is opposed to any suggestion that it could be amended. “We’ve given a lot to the country. I paid all my taxes all my life.”

PJ and Helen Ryan: ‘We’re always saying we should use it more, before they take it off us.’ Photograph: Jennifer O’Connell

The scheme is “an extraordinary social programme, unique in its scale and universality” says Barry Kenny of Iarnród Eireann. “Everything from the midweek breaks that keep the hotels going to the centralisation of health services – they’re all things the free travel facilities.”

During the eight years up to 2018, the number of free travel journeys by Dublin Bus increased by 25 per cent. More than 35 per cent more trips were made using the pass on Bus Éireann. There was a 26 per cent increase in journeys taken through the scheme on Iarnród Éireann. Local Link trips went up by 16 per cent, and Luas journeys by 81 per cent.

The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection says that funding to the scheme has increased by one quarter over the past four years, bringing it up to €95 million.

According to some with an interest in this issue, those numbers just don’t add up. “Free travel is up there as one of the greatest social achievements in the history of this country,” says Mark Gleeson, a spokesperson for Rail Users Ireland, a group representing rail travellers.

'There was six per cent growth overall each year. So yes, there is more pressure on resources, and we have an urgent need to order new trains'

“The problem is that the Government doesn’t pay the transport operators a fair rate” for the services. “There’s the whole climate argument too. If you want people to use public transport, fund it properly.”

And as the population ages, “the numbers of people using the scheme will keep going up. The funding for the scheme doesn’t cover the cost of providing it, and that deficit will be made up somewhere. Either in higher fares, or in cutbacks. If the intention is to provide people with unlimited travel 24 hours a day, it needs to be funded on a commercial basis.”

As it stands, Gleeson says, “the passenger who pays for the monthly ticket, or the taxpayer generally, is paying for the deficit”.

Demand for rail services is “increasing across the board from all customers,” says Barry Kenny. “It’s not particular to free-travel-scheme users. We had the highest ever number of users in 2018 – there was six per cent growth overall each year. So yes, there is more pressure on resources, and we have an urgent need to order new trains.”

Off-peak travel

At various times since the recession, there have been suggestions that the cost of the scheme could be offset by limiting travel to off-peak hours, or by removing access to free travel for spouses or partners of the over-66s. The issue arose again recently, when Fianna Fáil transport spokesman Marc MacSharry told this newspaper that the funding of the scheme warranted close monitoring, to ensure an unfair burden was not being placed on transport companies or fare-paying passengers.

But he said he was opposed to any proposal that eligibility for the free travel pass should be means-tested.

The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection and the National Transport Authority (NTA) have rejected any suggestion that the scheme could be amended or restricted.

Bridget McCabe and Agnes Mulligan: ‘It’s given us all a new lease on life.’ Photograph: Jennifer O’Connell

A spokesperson for Minister Regina Doherty says she is "committed to its full retention" and that "she believes that the free travel pass is an essential and valuable support for older people and people with disabilities ... There are no plans to make any changes to the free travel scheme at this time."

A spokesperson for the NTA said that “while funding has not kept pace with the cost of operating services and passenger numbers, as far as NTA is concerned there is no prospect of reducing access to public transport services to people who benefit from the scheme”.

In Heuston Station, Ronnie O’Shea is waiting to return home on the 4.30pm Galway train, after a trip to Tallaght Hospital for health treatment. “I think it’s a very good service. For older people and for people who are on social welfare, it’s very empowering. I’m fully in favour of it.”

Last year, Dublin Bus served 140 million transport journeys. Of those, approximately 20 per cent, or 28.39 million, were covered by the free travel scheme

He uses it infrequently – “just when I’m up and down for health treatment” – but, he says, “there’s people that use it every day, and they need it very badly. Working class people and older people who have worked all their life and paid taxes, they don’t want this taken away from them.”

Helen Ryan and her husband PJ are using their cards to return home by train to Kildare, after a day out in Dublin Zoo. They rarely avail of the service. “We wouldn’t go anywhere just because we have it. We never come up like this. We’re always saying we should use it more, before they take it off us.”

Sense of freedom

Dublin Bus users are similarly attached to the scheme. Up and down the busy thoroughfare of Rathmines Road, buses stop to let people on and off. It’s midweek and the neighbourhood is bustling with people running errands, attending the gym, and doing their weekly shops.

Older people in particular tend to gravitate towards Rathmines during the week as it’s more convenient and less busy than the city centre. Many get to and from here on the bus.

Last year, Dublin Bus served 140 million transport journeys. Of those, approximately 20 per cent, or 28.39 million, were covered by the free travel scheme.

Una Hogan is from Kimmage and regularly takes the bus to Rathmines to use the gym facilities in the Swan Leisure Centre. Hogan still drives and uses her car to get to and from bridge club, but says the free travel pass affords her a sense of freedom.

“It’s everything to me because it means you don’t think twice about getting out,” she says. “It gets you out of the house. If I had to pay to come down to Rathmines, I’d have to think twice about it. I have my pension and I can live comfortably on my pension with the situation as it is now.”

'If they tried to take it away, we'd fight it. The grey vote would come out in force again'

Hogan has two daughters in Dublin but says the pass ensures she isn’t heavily reliant on them to get around. “It keeps me independent.”

However, Hogan says she believes that the free travel pass should be means tested. “I think there are a lot of people using it that don’t need to use it and I think it’s there for the people who can’t afford to travel,” she says.

Sally Eustace lives in Dublin 2 and says she uses her free travel pass daily, for commuting around the city and visiting family. “I use it a lot getting around town,” she says. “I have a daughter in Galway and I can go down to her.”

She describes it as a “lifeline” and says it makes a “huge difference” to her ability to get around.

Asked about how she would feel if the scheme were to be curtailed or amended, she said she would be upset about it but suggested limiting the use of the travel pass to off-peak times.

“I do see the point [to limiting it] at a time when people are going to work or coming home from work and the buses are full anyway,” she says. “They could limit the hours before 4.30pm.”

Previously, holders of the free travel pass were restricted from travelling on Monday to Friday from 7am to 9am and from 4.30pm to 6.30pm. Exemptions were made for those with hospital appointments.

The policy was lifted in 2006 by the then-minister for social affairs Seamus Brennan. Since then, holders of the free travel pass have been able to travel without restriction. A 2014 report into the viability of the scheme stated that reintroducing this measure would likely prove "very unpopular".

However, Eustace says that she is opposed to the idea of means-testing. “I think that’s not fair because I have a house but I don’t have that big an income,” she says. “I just have a pension.”

Frank O’Donoghue from Rathmines uses his travel pass a few times a week, both for getting around town and travelling down the country by rail.

Asked how he would feel if the scheme were amended, he replies: “Not warm.”

“I suppose like anybody else who has actually paid their taxes over the years, it’s a very attractive benefit we have, and I quite like the idea of having it and the freedom it offers,” he says. “I would rather I continue I have it.”

O’Donoghue is also opposed to means-testing, but says off-peak restrictions could be worth considering.

Peter Aherne lives alone in Portobello. Like others, he uses his free travel pass to travel around the city nearly every day. “Just to keep myself mobile,” he says.

As someone who no longer drives, Aherne says he relies on Dublin Bus to get around and to attend Tallaght Hospital. “I have a lot of appointments in the hospital early in the morning for blood tests and things like that,” he says.

Similarly, he says it prevents older people from feeling isolated or socially excluded. “If it was ever taken away, people would just be stuck in their houses all the time by themselves,” he says. “They wouldn’t get out or anything like that. We can’t drive, bicycles are not a goer for us.”

“If they tried to take it away, we’d fight it. The grey vote would come out in force again.”

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0818 123 223, disability pension ., provided by the national pension helpline, what is a disability/invalidity pension.

The Disability pension in Ireland is a payment that is made by the State to a person who is unable to work due to an illness or injury that permanently affects their performance in the workplace.

To qualify for it you must have been unable to work for at least 12 months immediately prior to making the application.

The reason for your incapacity to work should be illness or injury related. You must also have amassed the correct number of PRSI payments in the preceding years before your illness or injury.

This ensures the pension applies to workers who have been incapacitated rather than individuals who have never been able to work.

This group is covered by other State supports. So, for example, a young person who is never able to enter the workforce because of an illness or injury would not be covered by an invalidity pension.

You must have worked a minimum of five years and paid monthly PRSI payments to qualify.

Table of Contents

How much is disability/invalidity pension

What happens to my invalidity pension at age 66

Benefits of an invalidity pension

What age do I have to be to claim invalidity pension in Ireland

Do I pay tax on my invalidity pension

How do I qualify for invalidity pension

Invalidity social insurance (PRSI) rules to qualify

Invalidity medical rules to qualify

Things to consider when applying for Invalidity Pension

Can I work on an Invalidity pension

Can an individual pension be stopped

Invalidity Pension rates

Invalidity pension application.

What is Supplementary Welfare Allowance

How much is the disability pension in Ireland?

Currently, the Disability Pension in Ireland is around €213.50 per week . There is an additional payment of around €152 for a dependent adult and an additional payment of between €40-€48 for each dependent child.

What happens to my invalidity pension when I turn 66?

At the age of 66 a person in receipt of an Invalidity Pension automatically transfers to the State pension . The State pension is higher in value than the Invalidity pension. Invalidity pension is currently around €213 per week whereas the State pension is around €253.30 per week. 

What are the benefits of an Invalidity pension?

Invalidity pension is seen as a payment to support a worker who is no longer able to support themselves having contributed to the workforce in the past.

It is not considered a benefit but a necessary financial support until they reach normal State pension age . It is paid on a weekly basis at around €213.50 per week with an additional payment for dependent adults and children. 

For example, if a recipient of the Invalidity pension has a dependent spouse then they will receive an additional payment of around €152.50. 

If they have children, then they will receive a weekly increase of around €40 per week for each child under the age of 12. For children over the age of 12 they will receive an additional payment of around €48.

Recipients of the Invalidity pension will receive a free travel pass and may be entitled to apply for the Household Benefits Package . 

This is a scheme designed to assist certain classes of people to pay for the cost of running their home. It includes contributions towards the cost of gas and electricity as well as a television license. 

In normal circumstances it is paid to households with people over the age of 70 but in certain circumstances people on invalidity pension may also apply for it.

At what age can I start accessing an Invalidity pension?

Qualifying for the Invalidity Pension is not necessarily related to age. To qualify you will have to have worked for a minimum of five years , making weekly or monthly PRSI deductions from your pay throughout this period. 

Consequently, due to the rules around PRSI payments, the successful applicants for this scheme are already adults who have been incapacitated due to illness or injury. They can be any age as long as the PRSI and medical requirements have been fulfilled.

Is Invalidity pension taxable?

Yes, Invalidity Pension is a taxable income and Revenue will be informed that you are in receipt of it. By definition, you are not entitled to work while you are in receipt of invalidity pension and if you wish to take up a training course or other bridge to the workplace you must declare this. 

How do I qualify for an Invalidity pension?

To qualify for Invalidity Pension you need to have been already active in the workplace in Ireland before an illness or injury incapacitated you and made it impossible for you to work. 

There are two sets of rules that you need to qualify for. The first is social insurance based and the second is medical. 

What are the Social Insurance (PRSI) rules?

The PRSI rules are designed to ensure that you have been an active member of the workforce in advance of your application for invalidity pension. If not, there are other financial supports to assist you. 

The threshold for qualifying for this pension is a minimum of 260 weeks of paid PRSI payments and 48 weeks of PRSI payments in the last or second-last years of work before incapacity. 

You cannot use voluntary contributions to qualify and a deciding officer will be appointed to your case to review your application and make a decision.

What are the medical rules?

The medical conditions for Invalidity Pension are extremely wide so there is no definitive list of conditions.

The medical rules are that you must have been incapacitated due to illness or injury from working for the previous 12 months as well as an expectation that you will be unable to work for at least the next 12 months.

You may be in receipt of social welfare payments such as illness benefit or disability allowance during this time. An alternative qualifying rule is that you are judged to be permanently incapable of work due to an illness or injury.

Can I work on an Invalidity pension?

No, you cannot work in any capacity if you are in receipt of the full Invalidity Pension. It is a financial support explicitly designed to support those who are incapable of working due to illness or disability. 

However, if your diagnosis changes and you wish to return to the workforce you may apply for a Partial Capacity Benefit. This will allow you to return to the workforce and also receive reduced financial support.

Can an individual pension be stopped?

Your pension can be stopped if you are judged to have changed circumstances such as a new medical diagnosis, a return to health or the capability to return to the workforce. Also if you are judged to be working then this will affect your pension. 

Maximum personal rate: €213.50

Increase for an adult dependant: €152.50

Increase for a child dependant: Child under 12 years of age: €40 (full-rate) / €20 (half-rate) Child aged 12 and over: €48 (full-rate) / €24 (half-rate)

You may get an increase in your payment for an adult dependant, but it will depend on their income.

You may get an increase in your payment for a child dependant. You will not get an increase in your payment for child dependant if your spouse, civil partner or cohabitant has an income of over €400 a week. You will get a half-rate increase for a child if your spouse, civil partner or cohabitant earns between €310 and €400 a week. This only applies to claims made after 5 July 2012.

You apply for an invalidity pension through your local INTREO or social welfare office. They will have the forms you require to begin your application. If you are unable to attend the office due to illness a person can begin the process on your behalf. 

What is Supplementary Welfare Allowance?

While you are waiting for an application for Invalidity Pension to be processed you can apply for the Supplementary Welfare Allowance which is a means-tested support that examines your sources of income to determine eligibility.

If you have questions around Invalidity Pension and whether you may qualify to receive it you can access independent advice from a specialist pension advisor. Contact an expert today by clicking here.

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Get the facts on Ireland's Free Travel Scheme

Everyone aged 66 and over, living permanently in Ireland, can get the Free Travel Scheme

WHAT is the Free Travel Scheme?

The Free Travel Scheme allows you to travel, free of charge, on public transport and some private bus and ferry services.

Who qualifies for it?

Everyone aged 66 and over, living permanently in Ireland, can get the Free Travel Scheme.

People with disabilities and carers aged under 66 may also qualify for Free Travel if they are in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment. You can check with your local Citizens Information Centre if you are unsure whether or not you qualify.

If I have Free Travel can somebody else travel with me?

If you qualify for Free Travel and you are married, in a civil partnership or cohabiting, your partner may travel with you for free. They cannot travel with you for free, if you are under age 66 and getting Free Travel because you are getting Carer’s Allowance, or you are the nominated carer for a person getting Constant Attendance Allowance or Prescribed Relatives Allowance

If you can’t travel alone for medical reasons, you may get Free Travel for a companion. This allows a person aged over 16 to travel with you for free.

If you qualify for Free Travel, your Public Services Card (PSC) will have FT (for Free Travel) in the top left-hand corner. The letter following it shows who you can take with you:

FT-P - you can travel for free

FT+S - your spouse, partner or cohabitant can travel with you for free

FT+C - you can have a person (over 16) travel with you for free

You must carry it with you when you are using public transport.

Paper free travel passes are no longer being issued but you can still use your paper pass, if it is valid.

Where can I use Free Travel?

You can use your Free Travel on most Iarnród Éireann, Bus Éireann, Dublin Bus, DART and Luas Services and on certain private bus and ferry services. Free travel is also available on Local Link services.

It does not include some special services such as Dublin Bus AIRLINK services.

Are there any limits on the times when I can use my Free Travel?

There are no restrictions.

Can I use my Free Travel to travel to Northern Ireland?

You may also travel free of charge on certain cross-border services between Ireland and Northern Ireland. But to travel free in Northern Ireland, you must have a Senior Smartpass.

How do I get a Senior Smartpass?

To qualify for free travel within Northern Ireland, you must be in receipt of a Free Travel Card or Paper Pass and be aged 66 years or over. Your spouse, civil partner, cohabitant, or companion is not eligible to accompany you for free in Northern Ireland under this scheme. You can get an application form from your local Social Welfare Intreo office or Citizens Information Centre

What happens if I have Free Travel due to a disability and I start work ?

You can keep your Free Travel for 5 years, if you moved from one of the following disability payments to work:

Invalidity Pension

Partial Capacity Benefit (from Invalidity Pension)

Disablement Benefit paid along with Incapacity Supplement

You can also keep your Free Travel for 5 years if you transferred from Disability Allowance or Invalidity Pension to a Community Employment, SOLAS or a Back to Work scheme.

How to apply for Free Travel

If you are aged 66 or over and are getting a social welfare pension, your Public Service Card (PSC) will be issued showing that you have Free Travel automatically. You must have completed the PSC SAFE registration process and be getting one of the following payments:

Carer’s Allowance

If you are married or in a civil partnership, your PSC will be issued with FT-S on it. If you are cohabiting, you must fill in Part 1 and 2 of the Free Travel application form FT1.

If you are not getting one of the payments above, but you are eligible for Free Travel you must fill in the Free Travel application form FT1.

You can get an application form for Free Travel from the Department of Social Protection. The form is also available at your local post office and Citizens Information Centre.

What happens if I lose or damage my Free Travel pass or PSC?

There are currently 2 types of Free Travel Pass - a paper Free Travel Pass and a Public Services Card with Free Travel (with F-T written in the top left-hand corner). Paper passes are no longer being issued so if you need a replacement for a lost or damaged paper pass you must undergo SAFE registration and get a Public Services Card.

If your Public Services Card Free Travel is lost, stolen or damaged, you should telephone 0818 837 000 to request a replacement card.

The telephone lines for South Munster Citizens Information in Cork City are monitored from 10am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday. In addition, the Cork City Centre CIC in Cornmarket Street is open to the public from 10am to 12.30pm, Tuesdays and Thursdays, while the Blackpool CIC is open to the public each morning from 10am to 1pm, Monday to Friday. Full details for all Citizens Information Centres and their opening times are available on our website.

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If you are under 66, you must meet certain conditions to qualify. The Free Travel Scheme allows you to travel, free of charge, on all public transport owned by the State. This includes bus, rail, Local Link and the Luas, with some exceptions. Free travel is also available on some services operated by private bus and ferry transport operators.

The Free Travel Scheme allows you to travel, free of charge, on public transport and some private bus and ferry services. Everyone aged 66 and over, living permanently in Ireland, can get the Free Travel Scheme. People with disabilities and carers aged under 66 may also qualify for Free Travel. If you qualify for Free Travel and you are married ...

The Transport for Ireland website provides general information on how people with disabilities can travel safely to, from and within Ireland. Links to other websites, which provide more detailed information, are also provided. Accessible travel is an on-going endeavour to ensure all operators provide safe, accessible and friendly access to all ...

About the Free Travel Pass. The Free Travel Pass allows holders to travel free of charge on public transport services in Ireland including Bus Éireann, Dublin Bus, Go-Ahead Ireland, Iarnród Éireann, Luas, TFI Local Link and Kilkenny Services operated by City Direct. The Free Travel Pass is also accepted by many commercial bus services. You ...

Two organisations offer the card in Ireland. You can apply online on the website of the Irish Wheelchair Association, or email [email protected] .. You can apply online on the website of the Disabled Drivers Association or email [email protected] .. A parking card costs €35. You can buy a windscreen holder which costs €2. You will need to get a Garda at a Garda station to identify your photo ...

To qualify for free travel within Northern Ireland, you must be in receipt of a Free Travel Card or Paper Pass and be aged 66 years or over. Under the terms of the concessionary fares scheme in Northern Ireland, only Free Travel recipients over age 66 are entitled to travel free of charge in Northern Ireland.

The Travel Assistance Scheme in Dublin is available for Dublin Bus, Go-Ahead Ireland, DART and Luas services. It is run by Dublin Bus, but they provide the service across different transport providers. To find out more, contact Dublin Bus by: Phone: 01 703 3204. Email: [email protected] .

The travel pass scheme operates for a 12-month period, and you can apply for it at two intervals only in any given year. NSSO accepts applications for either January to December or July to June. As announced on 11 May 2022, a free TaxSaver extension has been applied to valid tickets due to the application of the 20% reduction in ticket prices ...

Rail services. You must show your Free Travel Paper Pass at the ticket booking desk in the train station and you will be given a free rail ticket. If you are making your return journey on the same day, you will get a Day Return ticket. In all other cases, you will get a Single Journey ticket. You will have to get another Single Journey ticket ...

Since 6 April 2017, under the Make Work Pay initiative, if you move from a long-term disability payment (see list below) to a job, you can keep your entitlement to Free Travel for a period of 5 years, provided you have registered for a Public Services Card. •Disability Allowance. •Invalidity Pension.

A mobility-impaired liaison officer (tel. 01/703-3299) can arrange assistance for travelers with disabilities if given 24-hour notice prior to the departure time. If you're conducting research prior to your trip, one of the best Irish-based online resources is www.disability.ie. For advice on travel to Northern Ireland, contact Disability ...

For information on what a Free Travel Pass is go to the Department of Social Protection website, contact your local Social Welfare Office or Call their Information Line at 1890 500 000 (from the Republic of Ireland only) or 00353 71 915 7100 (from Northern Ireland or overseas). All free travel passes are issued by the Department of Social ...

FREE TRAVEL SCHEME. Everyone aged 66 and over, legally resident and living permanently in the State (Republic of Ireland), is entitled to the Free Travel Scheme. Some people under 66 also qualify. If you qualify for Free Travel, you will be issued a card from the Department of Social Protection. You must carry your Free Travel Card with you ...

A Free Travel Pass allows free travel on all public transport ad some private providers throughout Ireland. A Companion Free Travel Pass allows a companion over the age of 16 to travel for free with the person who holds the pass. ... The scheme is administered by the Disabled Drivers Association of Ireland (DDAI) and the Irish Wheelchair ...

Sat Sep 7 2019 - 06:00. Just shy of 50 million journeys were taken under Ireland's free travel scheme in 2018, a 30 per cent increase in eight years. The scheme, which allows the over-66s, their ...

If you move off Disability Allowance, to a job, you keep your entitlement to the Free Travel (Pass) Scheme for five years. If you move off the Blind Pension to a job, you keep your entitlement to the Free Travel (Pass) Scheme, once you continue to be registered with the National Council for the Blind of Ireland (NCBI).

Free Travel Pass Table of contents Free Travel Pass Free Travel and Public Services Card Spouses, civil partners, cohabitants and companions Senior SmartPass for travelling in Northern Ireland Rules to qualify for Free Travel Pass How to apply - *All information from CitizensInformation.ie Free Travel Pass Everyone aged 66 and over living permanently in the State is entitled […]

Currently, the Disability Pension in Ireland is around €213.50 per week. There is an additional payment of around €152 for a dependent adult and an additional payment of between €40-€48 for each dependent child. ... Recipients of the Invalidity pension will receive a free travel pass and may be entitled to apply for the Household ...

What Invalidity Pension is. Invalidity Pension is a weekly payment to people who cannot work because of a long-term illness or disability and are covered by social insurance (PRSI). Once you reach the age of 66, you transfer automatically to the State Pension (Contributory) at the full rate. You are entitled to a Free Travel Scheme travel pass.

But to travel free in Northern Ireland, you must have a Senior Smartpass. ... What happens if I have Free Travel due to a disability and I start work ? ... There are currently 2 types of Free Travel Pass - a paper Free Travel Pass and a Public Services Card with Free Travel (with F-T written in the top left-hand corner). Paper passes are no ...

Disability Allowance is paid to people with a disability. You can get it from 16. The maximum weekly rate is €208. From January 2023 it will increase to €220. You can work and receive a reduced rate. Disability Allowance is paid to people with a disability. You can get it from 16.

Syncing Orion Data ​

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To sync Orion tabs, bookmarks, and reading lists across devices, perform these steps on each device .

• Troubleshooting
• In Orion, use the Orion menu to open Preferences.

• Click the Sync tab and check the box for Enable cross-device sync of your tabs, bookmarks, and reading list .

• Open the Orion app.
• Tap the three-dot menu (•••) in the lower-right corner of the screen.
• Tap Settings .

• In the Sync section, turn on Sync if it isn't already on.

• Tap the three-dot menu (•••) in the upper-right corner of the screen.

Troubleshooting Syncing Data Issues ​

If you find that your most recent data has not been synced over, please checkout our troubleshooting syncing data issues guide to help get everything working again. If your problem persists, please submit a bug report to Orion feedback forum so we can investigate and fix the issue.