Naoise Ó Muirí (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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24. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport for an update on progress of the regional and local EV charging network plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22875/25]

Jerry Buttimer (Cork South-Central, Fine Gael)
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I am pleased to confirm that the Regional and Local EV Charging Network Plan was launched on the 29th of April.Developed by Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland (ZEVI), the plan sets targets and strategies for local authorities to drive EV infrastructure development at destination and neighbourhood locations, with government support.This is in alignment with both national and EU climate goals, helping to cut emissions and move towards a fully decarbonised transport sector by 2050.Led by local authorities, the Regional and Local Plan ensures a cohesive and standardised approach, which will promote a unified and efficient roll out of charging infrastructure and facilitate the equitable transition to EVs. This is another significant step in the ongoing roll out of publicly accessible charge points. The plan will sit alongside the existing National Road EV Charging Plan, En-route Charging Schemes, and of course the widespread use of home charging which will remain the best and most efficient way to roll out EV charging for all.As we look to roll out the Regional and Local EV Charging Network Plan, Local Authorities have grouped into 10 regional and city groups to manage the development of Local EV Network Plans. Some of these are already complete and they have moved to procure and roll out EV charging infrastructure. It is expected that all regional groups will complete their plans in the first half of this year. ZEVI is supporting Local Authorities by funding dedicated EV charging infrastructure officers in each Local Authority, to co-ordinate and lead on the roll out of charging infrastructure. While strategies are being finalised, ZEVI is funding pilot infrastructure projects in a number of Local Authorities, so as not to delay any initial roll-out.