Leap card flat fare introduction is 'real win' for Cork city

The introduction of a 90 minute Leap Card flat fare for passengers on Cork city buses which will be operational from next month has been described as a “real win for the city” by Green Party councillor, Honoré Kamegni.

The new fare is part of the first phase of a wider overhaul of Cork’s public transport and pricing structure and, in future phases, fares will be integrated across bus and rail services in the commuter zone. This is expected to be in place later this year and a new commuter-zone pricing model – which will extend up to 30km from the city – is expected to be operational by 2026.

A new commuter zone pricing model – which will extend up to 30km from the city – is expected to be in place from by 2026. A tap-on/tap-off system has experienced some delay but National Transport Authority officials have reaffirmed the body’s commitment to rolling it out as soon as possible. Once it’s live, the system is expected to improve service flow and speed up boarding.

According to Cork City South East Green Party councillor, the introduction of the 90-minute fare to Cork will “accelerate our shift towards cleaner, more efficient transport”.

“It’s a real win for the city and I look forward to working with all partners to maintain this positive moment,” said the councillor.

“This announcement follows my March 2025 motion in Cork City Council, which called on the Government and the NTA to make the new Cork bus network a national priority and to bring the 90‑minute fare to our city.

“I’m grateful to my council colleagues, NTA officials, and the many residents who supported this proposal and kept up the pressure.”