Paul Donnelly (Dublin West, Sinn Fein)
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168. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of EV charging points currently available for use in each Bus Éireann depot. [46395/24]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As the Deputy may be aware, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including, public transport fleet.

No new diesel-only buses have been purchased for urban public service obligation bus fleets since July 2019, as set out in the National Development Plan 2018-2027. The transition to a zero-emission urban bus fleet is currently programmed to take up until 2035, based on replacement of non-zero-emission buses as they reach the end of their efficient service lives.

There are 11 battery-electric buses in operation on public bus services provided by Bus Éireann in Athlone since January 2023.

There are currently 34 battery-electric buses in operation on public bus services provided by Bus Éireann in Limerick City, all of which were first deployed in 2024.

Electric buses produce no tailpipe carbon emissions and offer reduced interior and exterior noise levels compared to diesel buses. This transition to electric buses will result in cleaner air and less noise pollution in areas where the buses are operating, while also providing a quieter journey for passengers.

Noting the NTA's responsibility in this matter I have referred your question to the NTA for a more detailed direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.