TFI Local Link Limerick Clare announces contactless payments and Anseo pilot extension

TFI Local Link Limerick Clare announces contactless payments and Anseo pilot extension

TFI Local Link Limerick Clare introduces contactless card payments as well as an extension to the TFI Anseo pilot service

The National Transport Authority (NTA) has announced that TFI Local Link Limerick Clare is the latest TFI Local Link service area to introduce contactless card payments as well as an extension to the TFI Anseo pilot service.

The introduction of contactless payments aims to give passengers greater flexibility and convenience when paying for their journeys.

Passengers availing of TFI Local Link Limerick Clare services can now tap on using their debit or credit card, or choose mobile payment options such as Apple Pay or Google Pay. This rollout enables customers to pay for their journeys more quickly, easily and conveniently.

advertisement
advertisement

advertisement
advertisement

advertisement
advertisement

advertisement
advertisement

The introduction of contactless payments in Limerick and Clare builds on the successful pilot programme in Cavan and Monaghan and follows recent rollouts across several other TFI Local Link service areas, including Louth, Meath and Fingal. This continued expansion reflects strong passenger feedback and the NTA’s commitment to delivering modern, user‑friendly payment options for people using rural and regional public transport.

Contactless payment is currently available for single journey fares. Daily and weekly fare products continue to be available via the Leap website and the TFI Leap Top Up App. TFI Leap cards, cash payments and Free Travel Cards remain valid for use across all eligible TFI Local Link services.

Edmund Betagh, TFI Local Link Programme Manager at the NTA, said, “The strong uptake in areas where contactless payments have already been introduced demonstrates the value customers place on greater choice and flexibility when travelling. As the rollout expands across the country, our focus remains on enhancing the customer experience and making public transport journeys smoother and more accessible for all.”

Anne Gaughan, TFI Local Link Manager for Limerick Clare, added, “Contactless payments are a welcome addition to TFI Local Link Limerick Clare services, offering passengers a quicker and more convenient way to pay for their journeys. Whether travelling regularly or using the service occasionally, customers will benefit from greater flexibility and ease of use. This enhancement reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering public transport services that are accessible, reliable and responsive to local needs.”

The extension of the TFI Anseo pilot service announcement for Limerick enables the innovative demand-responsive transport service to continue connecting people with the places and services that matter most to them.

The announcement comes one year after the launch of the first of three TFI Anseo pilot services in Achill on 15 July 2025 and comes almost 10 months after its launch in Limerick. Operated under the TFI Local Link network, the three pilot schemes have provided valuable insights into how demand-responsive transport can improve mobility in rural communities. With all three pilots operating within budget, the NTA is extending the Limerick service to continue building on its success and learning.

Anne Shaw, CEO of the National Transport Authority, said, “Delivering the service within budget while continuing to respond to the needs of local communities demonstrates the potential of demand-responsive transport to become an important part of Ireland’s rural public transport network.

“Most importantly, this extension means that people across the North East Limerick area can continue to benefit from a flexible and accessible transport service that helps them get to work, education, healthcare appointments and social activities. The insights gained through the pilot are helping us understand how innovative transport solutions can support more connected, sustainable and inclusive communities into the future.”

Anne Gaughan, General Manager, TFI Local Link Limerick Clare, said, “We are delighted to see the TFI Anseo pilot in Limerick extended, allowing us to continue providing a flexible and responsive transport service that is making a real difference for people across the area.

“Over the past year, we have seen how the service has helped connect people with employment, education, healthcare and social opportunities, while offering a public transport option that can adapt to local travel needs. The extension of the pilot gives us the opportunity to build on that success, continue listening to passenger feedback and further demonstrate the role demand-responsive transport can play in supporting vibrant and connected communities.”