The Government today announced that the concessionary fare under the Government Public Transport Fare Concession Scheme for the Elderly & Eligible Persons with Disabilities, or the $2 Scheme, will be adjusted to a "$2 flat rate or 80% discount" starting April 3.

Under the new arrangement, beneficiaries will continue to pay $2 for trips with an adult fare of $10 or less. For trips with an adult fare above $10, beneficiaries will pay 80% less than the full fare. The adjustment also applies to interchange journeys.

Secretary for Labour & Welfare Chris Sun said the $2 Scheme aims to build a caring and inclusive society by encouraging the elderly and eligible persons with disabilities to participate more in community activities.

“The '$2 flat rate or 80% discount' adjustment preserves the policy intent of the scheme while striking a balance between enhancing the sustainability of the scheme and minimising impacts on beneficiaries," he added.

Speaking to the media, Mr Sun said that the new arrangement is expected to save $550 million in public funds annually.

The Government said that the targeted beneficiaries of the $2 Scheme remain unchanged. Eligible beneficiaries can continue to enjoy the concessions using a JoyYou Card or a Personalised Octopus with a valid "Persons with Disabilities Status".

To ensure the public is well-informed of the new arrangement, the Government will launch a series of promotional activities.

These include Announcements in the Public Interest on television and radio, displaying posters and distributing leaflets at major public transportation networks and through district networks that provide services for the elderly and persons with disabilities, as well as displaying advertisements on public transport.

The Labour & Welfare Bureau will also hold two briefing sessions today for members of the 18 District Councils and District Services & Community Care Teams to explain the changes.

The Government will also deploy service ambassadors at MTR stations and public transport interchanges from April 3 to assist the public and answer their enquiries.