New TFI Child Leap Card Launches Free Travel for Under-9s

A new initiative known as the TFI Child Leap Card has been introduced, allowing free travel on all TFI services for children aged five to eight years. This card, which can be obtained through the website leapcard.ie, aims to provide complimentary travel to approximately 236,000 children across Ireland. This measure builds upon the existing free travel policy for children under five and is part of the wider Budget 2025 package.

The launch of the TFI Child Leap Card aligns with the Government’s commitment to enhancing the affordability and accessibility of public transport for families. According to the Department of Transport, this scheme is designed to foster sustainable travel habits from a young age, encouraging children to view public transport as a natural part of their daily lives.

Government Officials Praise the Initiative

Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien expressed his support for the initiative, stating, “This expansion will benefit almost 236,000 additional children and their families by providing free travel for under-9s, while also laying the foundations for lifelong sustainable travel habits.” He emphasized the importance of integrating public transport into the lives of young children, viewing it as a step towards a more inclusive system.

Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Seán Canney, echoed these sentiments, highlighting that free travel for children aged five to eight will alleviate financial pressures on families and enhance overall accessibility. “This policy is part of a broader Government strategy to make public transport more affordable and reduce congestion across the country,” he said. Canney also noted the importance of instilling confidence in the next generation to choose public transport as their preferred option.

Minister of State for Rural Transport, Jerry Buttimer, added that the new free travel initiative will greatly benefit families managing school runs and weekend outings. He stated, “This step ensures that families, whether in cities, towns, or villages, can access public transport offerings as part of daily life.” The card applies across all TFI services, including Local Link and Connecting Ireland, which are vital for many rural communities.

Application Process and Future Implications

Families can begin applying for the TFI Child Leap Card immediately via the online portal at leapcard.ie. The introduction of this card is expected to significantly enhance public transport usage among younger demographics, promoting a culture of public transport use that could persist into adulthood.

As the National Transport Authority (NTA) continues to implement its National Fares Determination Strategy, this initiative represents a targeted effort to ensure equitable access to public transport for all passenger groups in Ireland. By making travel more accessible to families, the Government aims to facilitate a shift towards greater public transport utilization, ultimately contributing to reduced congestion and improved environmental outcomes.

The TFI Child Leap Card marks a significant development in the public transport landscape of Ireland, reflecting a commitment to fostering a more inclusive and sustainable transportation system for future generations.