Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent)
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119. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when the necessary infrastructure will be put in place to facilitate local bus companies that are investing in electric buses so that they can charge their vehicles in a timely way and in a convenient location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25469/23]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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I launched the National EV Charging Infrastructure Strategy in January 2023 for the development of EV charging infrastructure, covering the crucial period out to 2025. The strategy identifies that the charging needs of buses is likely to be met at bus stations and bus depots, with opportunity charging taking place on public infrastructure.

ZEVI are currently working on the National EV Charging Network Plan [En-Route]. This plan will include provision for roll out of an initial level of charging infrastructure dedicated to heavy duty vehicles, which includes buses, in 2025. In line with the Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Regulation, this will be expanded rapidly between 2025 to 2030 so that by 2030 the full Ten-T Network will have dedicated EV charging for HDVs across the entire TEN-T road network.

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. As The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.