CHILDREN WILL GO free on public transport for a fortnight from next week, the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport has announced.

The free travel applies automatically to child Leap cards on Dublin Bus, Luas, DART, short-hop commuter rail in Dublin, and Bus Eireann services where Leap card validators are available.

Private services including Swords Express, Ashbourne Connect, Wexford Bus and Express Bus Dublin will also provide free travel to Leap card holders under the age of 18.

The promotion, which begins on Monday and ends on July 19, is intended to promote the cheaper fares available on child Leap cards, as well as encourage families and children to take advantage of public transport during the summer holidays.

Anne Graham, CEO of the National Transport Authority, said the initiative is continuing this year after a strong response to the 2014 scheme.

“We are particularly keen that those in the senior cycle of secondary school apply for their personalised card so that they can enjoy the cheapest fares for getting to and from school, and for their extra-curricular activities,” she said.

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