Councillor Proposes QR Codes To Advertise Council Services But Officials Flag Costs And Security

Monday, 8 September 2025 11:39

By Martin Osborne

Cllr Peter Melrose said any use of QR codes would be intended to link to online services rather than payments.

Kildare County Council has considered a proposal to increase promotion of its services through QR-code posters at bus shelters.

The motion, tabled by Social Democrats Cllr Peter Melrose, suggested using the posters to provide the public with easier access to online services.

Officials noted, however, that bus shelters are provided by the National Transport Authority (NTA) and not managed by the Council.

This means the Council has no control over what advertising is displayed on them, though it is possible to apply for access to space through the NTA at a cost.

Officials acknowledged potential benefits in raising awareness of online services but said posters would need to be assessed alongside other communication channels, such as social media, online videos, mobile apps and the Council’s website.

They also highlighted concerns around cost, flexibility and cybersecurity.

Speaking to Kfm, Cllr Melrose said any use of QR codes would be intended to link to online services rather than payments.

The Council said the proposal would be considered further as part of a wider review of how it communicates with the public.

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