Contactless card payments now accepted on all Laois-Offaly local link buses

The National Transport Authority (NTA) said contactless card payment technology has now been successfully rolled out across all TFI Local Link services in Laois and Offaly.

For the first time passengers using TFI Local Link services in the two counties can pay their fares using debit or credit cards, as well as mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay.

The local rollout this month follows the successful pilot of contactless card payments in Cavan-Monaghan, and the addition of the technology in Tipperary, in December.

Contactless payments will be accepted for single-journey fares, while daily and weekly products will continue to be available via the Leap website and the TFI Leap Top‑up App. Passengers may also continue to pay using TFI Leap cards and cash, and Free Travel Cards remain valid on all eligible services.

The NTA said this upgrade forms part of its wider programme to modernise fare payment systems nationally, improving accessibility and enhancing the overall passenger experience, particularly for communities in rural and regional areas.

Frances Byrne, the TFI Local Link Laois Offaly General Manager, said: "We’re committed to making public transport as convenient and user‑friendly as possible.

"The availability of modern payment options will make it easier for more people to choose sustainable travel and access vital services across the region."