Written answers
Wednesday, 17 January 2024
Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport
Bus Services
Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent)
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183. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of electric buses purchased by the NTA in 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023; the overall investment made; if all of these buses are currently in operation; if not, the reason; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56575/23]
Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including the procurement of the national Public Service Obligation bus fleet.
As part of various actions to help address climate change, the NTA intends to transition its urban State subsidised bus services to zero-emission bus fleet. The intention is that new zero-emission fleet (battery-electric) will replace the older diesel-powered fleet on an incremental basis, as the existing buses reach the end of their efficient operational life.
An order for 100 double deck electric buses was placed in 2022 and these buses will continue to enter service on an incremental basis in the coming weeks using charging infrastructure at the Summerhill and Phibsborough bus depots.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, 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.
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