Ms Laura Behan:

It is probably important to note we have not stopped investment in EVs. The SEAI grant is still available. It is funded every year from the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment. A large tax cost arises from the VRT exemption available in respect of every new vehicle. The incentives that are available for EVS cost the Exchequer significantly. It is important to point out that the State's investment in electric vehicles did not end with the €31 million invested by the ESB. In terms of the transport budget, the current capital plan gives equal weight to public transport and roads investment. Overwhelmingly, the money spent in roads relates to maintenance of the steady state and the very significant road network which supports our bus, cycling and walking journeys, in addition to passenger car journeys which are necessary. Very little of the current transport investment budget is spent on building new roads.