In an effort to make journeys 'safer, faster and easier', JJ Kavanagh bus company has announced that their main routes and college routes will go cashless as of Tuesday October 14.

"We’ve decided to introduce a cashless system, launching on October 14 across all services, with the exception of Local Links which will remain unaffected," the company announced.

"From this date, our drivers will no longer accept cash on board. Instead, you’ll have a choice of simple, modern payment options, making every journey smoother for both passengers and drivers.  

Pictured: James Fintan Lalor avenue bus stop. Photo: Maps

"By removing cash payments, we can reduce boarding times and help our drivers focus on getting you to your destination safely," they said.

The company has shared that their reasoning behind the move is 'faster boarding', to ensure that bus drivers remain safe while they work', and 'modern convenience to choose from a range of simple payment options'.

"You can still buy a ticket on the bus; just remember it's card only," the privately owned coach company stated.

Ways of purchasing bus tickets include; booking online or through the app to receive an e-ticket; contactless card; and for Waterford City services, Leap Card is accepted.

"This move is about giving you a simpler, safer, and more modern way to travel, whether you’re commuting, heading to school, or planning a trip, while ensuring our drivers remain safe.  

"Thank you for choosing JJ Kavanagh – we can’t wait to welcome you on board for faster, cash-free journeys," the company finished.

While this change will not affect local link routes, the 735 Limerick to Dublin service serves James Fintan Lalor avenue, and Kilminchy, Portlaoise.

College bus routes from Laois to Maynooth and Carlow servicing Portarlington, Portlaoise, Mountmellick and Stradbally will also go cashless.

There have been mixed responses to this announcement on social media, with many criticising this move.

"How to lose business 101," one Facebook user wrote.

"This is not good. Not everyone uses cards. Some people prefer to pay cash over cards," another user shared.

"What happens when system goes down, free bus trip?" someone else commented.

For more information on JJ Kavanagh's transition to cashless payments, see their website here.

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