'A major win for Kilkenny families' - John McGuinness hails free transport extension

Fianna Fáil TD for Carlow/Kilkenny John McGuinness has welcomed the official launch of the new Child 5-8 Leap Card by the National Transport Authority (NTA), labelling it a transformative and practical measure that will directly benefit thousands of families across the constituency.

From today, all children aged between five and eight are eligible for free travel on all public transport services across the Transport for Ireland (TFI) network, right up to their ninth birthday. This significant expansion of Ireland's free travel scheme means approximately 263,000 children nationwide can now access buses, trains, and trams at no cost upon presentation of their new dedicated Leap Card.
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"This is a fantastic day for families in Carlow and Kilkenny," Deputy McGuinness said. "The cost of living, and specifically the cost of getting around, is a constant pressure for parents. This initiative, first secured by Fianna Fail in Budget 2025, directly alleviates that pressure. Whether it's the cost of the school bus, a trip to the library in Kilkenny City, a journey to Carlow town for sports training, or a family day out to Dublin on the train, these savings will quickly add up and make a real difference to household budgets."

The new card covers all TFI public transport services, including Bus Eireann, larnród Eireann, Dublin Bus, Go-Ahead Ireland, and LUAS. Children under five already travel for free and do not require a card.

Deputy McGuinness highlighted the dual benefit of the scheme, noting it not only supports families financially but also invests in the future of sustainable travel in Ireland.

"This is about more than just immediate savings; it's about building positive habits for life. By making public transport free and accessible for our youngest citizens, we are encouraging a generation to see buses and trains as a natural, normal, and attractive way to get around. This is crucial for our long-term environmental and transport planning, helping to build a more connected and sustainable Ireland for their future."

Families can apply for the card immediately through the dedicated online portal at www.leapcard.ie. 

"I would strongly encourage all eligible families in Carlow and Kilkenny to apply for their child's card online today," Deputy McGuinness concluded. "This is a positive, practical measure that puts money back in parents' pockets and opens up new opportunities for travel and adventure for our children. It's a key deliverable from this government, and I am delighted to see it come to fruition."