Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats)
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868. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to invest in contactless payment for Dublin Bus and for Bus Éireann services at the point of entry to the bus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7172/16]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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​The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the development, operation and maintenance of the Leap Card scheme. Launched in December 2011, the Leap Card is a smartcard based fully integrated ticketing system that provides seamless travel between bus services, light rail and heavy rail services in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA). The scheme has also been extended to the regional cities and is being rolled out nationally on a gradual basis.

Various enhancements have been added to the scheme in the interim including the Leap Near Field Top-Up App which enables Leap Card users to use a special, free smartphone App to top-up their Leap Cards immediately (from their credit or debit cards) via the smartphone App.

Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply with regard to the use of contactless cards for public transport.  Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.