Contactless card payments rolled out on TFI Local Link services in Donegal

The National Transport Authority (NTA) has announced that passengers travelling in Donegal can now pay their fares on TFI Local Link services using contactless card payments, following the introduction of the technology in Sligo and Leitrim last month.

With the introduction of contactless payments, passengers can now use debit and credit cards or mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, simplifying the payment process and enhancing the overall travel experience.

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This latest rollout builds on the proven success of the initial pilot in Cavan and Monaghan, as well as the recent introductions in Tipperary, Mayo, Laois and Offaly. Contactless payments were introduced on all TFI Local Link services operated by the Donegal Sligo Leitrim office in Sligo and Leitrim on last month, and the addition of Donegal services means the full network managed by TFI Local Link DSL is now fully equipped with contactless payment options.

Contactless payments are available for single‑journey fares. Daily and weekly fare products will continue to be available through the Leap website and the TFI Leap Top‑Up App. Passengers can also continue to use TFI Leap cards and cash, while Free Travel Cards remain valid on all eligible TFI Local Link services.

The introduction of contactless payments forms part of the NTA’s ongoing programme to modernise public transport fare systems nationwide, with a strong focus on improving accessibility, ease of use and the passenger experience, particularly in rural and regional communities.

Edmund Betagh, TFI Local Link Programme Manager at the NTA, said: “With Sligo and Leitrim successfully going live with contactless payments on 13 February, we are now pleased to extend this upgrade to Donegal. This marks another important step in strengthening rural mobility across the country. Each phase of the rollout has shown clear benefits for passengers, and expanding to Donegal ensures even more communities can enjoy quicker, simpler and more flexible payment options when using public transport.”

Fiona O’Shea, General Manager, TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim, added: “Following the introduction of contactless payments in Sligo and Leitrim last month, we’re delighted to now bring the same upgrade to services in Donegal. This enhancement supports our commitment to providing a modern, customer‑focused transport network across the region. By making it easier and more convenient to pay, we’re helping to support greater use of public transport for everyday journeys.”