A new scheme allowing children aged five to eight to travel for free on public transport has been announced by the National Transport Authority (NTA). The news comes as welcome relief for local families and commuters.

The NTA has confirmed it is launching a new ‘Child 5-8 Leap Card,’ which will give children in this age group free access to public transport across the Transport for Ireland (TFI) network.

Local families can now apply for the card via the online portal at www.leapcard.ie.

Louth TD Ged Nash welcomed the initiative, stating that it's a "welcome step in the right direction" for making public transport more accessible and affordable. The TD encouraged local families to apply for the new card.