A new pensioner pass will allow over 70s to bring a friend with them on public transport for free.
It was one of the last measures agreed at a late night meeting of the Coalition leaders last night ahead of this afternoon's Budget.
Sources said the pensioner pass is aimed at tackling social isolation by letting over 70s bring someone with them on public transport for free
It's part of a mammoth social welfare budget including 10 different one off payments and across the board rate increases in payments
The Greens are claiming a win by securing the baby bonus - a €420 payment for all new parents
While Fianna Fáil is pointing to free schoolbooks up to Leaving Cert and continued cuts to income tax and USC
The only major loss for a Minister comes as Peter Burke failed to secure a reduction in the VAT rate for the hospitality sector, though he'll point to business supports for the sector instead.
Cabinet meets this morning to wave through the plans
