A Clare Fianna Fail TD says his party will strongly oppose any attempts to restrict or limit the Free Travel Scheme for older people.
It follow reports that the initiative, which is currently used by over 1.2 million people, is one of a number of issues being discussed by an inter-departmental review group.
State transport providers are seeking restrictions during peak hours in an effort to reduce costs but Government sources now say that the initiave will be protected.
East-Clare TD and Fianna Fail's Transport Spokesman Timmy Dooley is calling for Government assurances that the scheme won't facing cuts in October's budget.