Mick Wallace (Wexford, Independent)
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332. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of buses in the CIE fleet that run on fossil fuels; the number that run on electricity; the number of hybrid buses; the number of buses purchased in the past six years by power source; the number of buses that will be added to the fleet up to 2020 by power source; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44833/17]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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As the Deputy is aware, I am strongly committed to facilitating the uptake of low-emission technologies in the public transport sector. My Department published the National Policy Framework for Alternative Fuels Infrastructure for Transport in Ireland in May to support the deployment of alternative fuels for transport in Ireland and assist in removing any barriers that exist towards greater uptake of low emissions vehicles (LEVs).

My Department has also established a Green Public Transport Fund to support the uptake of low carbon technologies within the public transport sector. The fund will support pilot demonstrations of emerging low emission technologies, particularly for buses.

In suitable urban areas I am committed to meeting increasing travel demand through enhanced public transport capacity and encouraging more ‘active travel’ journeys – cycling and walking – and, within the context of the Government's budgetary policy and competing expenditure needs, I am working to be able to invest more in such infrastructure and services over time.

Outside urban areas - where dependence on private car travel is strongest and where systems of public transport and active travel offer less realistic potential to addressing travel needs effectively and efficiently - a different response is needed, and here alternative fuels and technologies currently offer the most feasible and cost-effective solution.

Decarbonising transport will require a significant step-change in how we travel but it is clear that a movement towards more sustainable technologies in the public transport fleet has already begun. In the Greater Dublin Area, the Bus Connects program includes a commitment to transition towards a new bus fleet using low-emission vehicle technologies. It is anticipated that by 2023, half of the bus fleet (approximately 500 buses) will be converted to low-emission vehicles, with plans for full conversion by 2030.

The data sought by the Deputy is a matter for Bus Éireann and Bus Átha Cliath, and I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the companies for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive responses within ten working days.