Improved Leap Card access needed at Dublin Airport & Dublin Port ahead of summer travel surge – Boland

Urgent action is needed by the National Transport Authority (NTA), working in partnership with Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) to improve access to Leap Cards at Dublin Airport and Dublin Port ahead of the busy summer travel season, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Grace Boland raised the issue in the Dáil and has called for the installation of purchase and top-up machines to be available within the airport and ferry terminals, along with staff to assist passengers to navigate their onward transport options.

“With passenger numbers set to increase significantly over the coming months, it is essential that both tourists and people coming home can access public transport easily and affordably from the moment they arrive.”

She highlighted that, unlike in many other European countries, those travelling into Dublin Airport or Dublin Port can’t simply tap on using bank cards and instead must have a Leap Card or exact change.

“Because passengers can’t tap on as they might across Europe, it is vital people are helped to buy and use a Leap Card on arrival. There also must be clear signage, visible machines and staff available to give guidance. That would make a huge difference to everyone’s welcome to Ireland.”

Deputy Boland said the current lack of clear access to Leap Cards causes unnecessary confusion for those travelling here, particularly those who are unfamiliar with Ireland’s transport system.

“Dublin Airport and Dublin Port are the main gateways to the country for millions of people every year, and first impressions matter. We must make sure access to public transport is straightforward.”

She added improving Leap Card access would also help reduce pressure on taxis and private car use, while supporting wider transport and climate objectives.

Deputy Boland said she will continue to engage with DAA, Dublin Port and the NTA on this issue and urged that these measures should be progressed as a priority ahead of the busy summer months.

She concluded by saying, “We need to make sure people have real choices in how they travel from Dublin Airport and Dublin Port. Making public transport accessible from the point of arrival into the country is a common-sense solution.”