
Ireland just gave families, and pint-sized passengers everywhere, a reason to cheer. This week, the government rolled out a new policy: free public transport for all children under nine. That’s right, kids can now ride buses and trains without parents fumbling for coins, cards, or excuses.
The move is part of Ireland’s bigger push to slash family costs and boost eco-friendly travel. It also means that a bus ride may now feature a symphony of juice box slurps, Pokémon debates, and at least one toddler firmly insisting on pressing the “stop” button for every single stop.
Parents are thrilled, some say the free rides may be the closest thing to childcare they’ll get. Transit officials, meanwhile, are bracing for a spike in sticker-covered windows and drivers being asked, “Are we there yet?” every three minutes.
Still, it’s progress: fewer cars, lighter wallets, and happier little travelers.
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