Written Answers Nos. 146-165
146. Deputy Ciarán Ahern asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment in light of recent international energy market volatility and supply disruptions, the additional measures he is taking to reduce Ireland’s dependence on imported fossil fuels and accelerate the deployment of indigenous renewable generation capacity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44691/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe recent global energy shocks underline the importance of accelerating the deployment of indigenous renewable energy sources such as wind and solar in tandem with supporting infrastructure, particularly the delivery of upgrades to the electricity network and electricity storage technologies.
Three cross-Government taskforces, the Accelerating Renewable Electricity Taskforce (ARET) for onshore renewables, the Offshore Wind Delivery Taskforce (OWDT), and the Accelerating Infrastructure Taskforce continue to develop effective policies designed to deliver an accelerated and increased level of renewable generation capacity and related infrastructure, including strengthening the electricity grid and increasing electricity storage.
Ireland currently has over 8 GW of renewable electricity generation capacity connected to the network, with approximately 5 GW of new renewable electricity generation capacity added over the last ten years.
More wind and solar capacity is needed if Ireland is to reduce the role of natural gas in price formation and protect our security of supply from volatile international fuel markets. Regional Renewable Electricity Capacity Allocations for onshore wind and solar were included in the First Revision of the National Planning Framework, published in April 2025. The inclusion of these allocations and the urgent alignment of regional strategies and local development plans with these is a critical step towards achieving Ireland’s national renewable electricity targets.
In December 2025, the International Energy Agency published its 'Powering Ireland's Energy report which takes into account key aspects of our energy system including: energy security, renewable generation, grid development, storage, interconnection and provides an assessment of Ireland's Energy Security to 2035.
The report will serve as a starting point for a cross-government programme of work during 2026 to consult on the role of the energy sector in delivering security, competitiveness, and sustainability across Irish society into the 2030s. The Department is working to develop a White Paper which will set out the strategic choices ahead and a delivery framework for Ireland’s electricity sector to 2050.
147. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he is aware of the implications of a report (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44738/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the Climate Action Plan, greenhouse gas emissions from the electricity sector have reached an all-time low, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, and fallen by about 44% between 2016 and 2024.
As we navigate complex challenges arising out of recent global events, it is clear that countries who have more renewables on their electricity system are more sheltered from the impact of volatility on the wholesale electricity market arising from fossil fuel prices. Adding more renewables to the electricity system will not only reduce emissions but will protect electricity consumers from fossil fuel volatility.
Ireland has made substantial progress in the development of renewable electricity capacity in recent years. We currently have over 8 GW of renewable electricity generation capacity connected to the network. This means we have added approximately 5 GW of new renewable electricity generation capacity in just ten years, including doubling our wind capacity and establishing solar energy as a major pillar of our electricity supply.
Ireland is a world leader in the integration of wind and solar energy, with 5 GW of onshore wind helping to reduce the emissions intensity of our power system as well as reducing the role of gas in setting wholesale electricity prices.
Solar is now Ireland's third largest source of indigenous electricity generation and Ireland’s fastest growing source of renewable generation. Solar is not only reducing electricity bills for households and businesses but also easing pressure on the grid by lowering peak demand and supporting a more resilient energy system.
The inclusion of Regional Renewable Electricity Capacity Allocations in the Revision of the National Planning Framework is a critical step towards achieving Ireland’s national renewable electricity targets and will support a plan-led approach to the strategic planning of renewable technologies.
148. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to examine a proposal in relation to increasing solar power generation capacity (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44810/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, Ireland is required to deploy suitable solar energy installations on all new, roofed car parks physically adjacent to buildings by 31 December 2029, if technically suitable and economically and functionally feasible. The transposition of this Directive is being led by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage with officials from my Department providing input where applicable.
149. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on the decision of the Government to co-host the Second Conference on Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels jointly with Tuvalu; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44816/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe current context of international energy instability continues to demonstrate that our transition to a clean energy future is more urgent than ever.
The transition away from fossil fuels and the transition to renewable energy is crucial for both climate change mitigation and our collective energy security. While this process is urgent, it must be carried out in a manner that is just, equitable and orderly, especially for the most vulnerable.
Ireland was a strong supporter of the recent First International Conference on Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels, lead by Colombia and the Netherlands and held in Santa Marta, Colombia, on the 28 – 29 April. The Conference presented an important opportunity to begin discussions on how we can progress the transition away from fossil fuels globally.
Ireland looks forward to playing its part to continue the work that was begun by Colombia and the Netherlands, by partnering with Tuvalu to co-host the Second Conference on Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels. The Second Conference will be held in Tuvalu in 2027, with pre-meetings to be held in Dublin.
Discussions are ongoing with Tuvalu, as well as Colombia and the Netherlands, on arrangements for the Second Conference.
150. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if his Department has carried out analysis regarding the total water and energy used by data centres as a percentage of total data and potable water consumed in the State; if any analysis is carried out on peak energy and water usage, particularly in hot summer periods; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44886/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn relation to energy use, electricity is the main source of energy for most data centres operating in Ireland. The Central Statistics Office Reports indicate the percentage share of metered electricity consumption used by data centres rose from 5% in 2015 to 22% in 2024. EirGrid regularly reviews the forecasted electricity demand for the next ten years and its latest forecast indicates data centre and new tech load will account for 35% of Ireland’s national electricity requirement by 2035.
Water usage management and conservation across commercial and industrial (non-domestic) sectors, including data centres, is an operational matter under the remit of Uisce Éireann. Uisce Éireann has statutory responsibility for all aspects of water services planning, delivery and operations at national, regional and local levels. It is understood from their previous analysis that most large data centres have improved efficiency and rely on closed loop systems with minimal ongoing consumption – estimated at below ~0.20% total consumption. I understand Uisce Éireann is currently carrying out a review of data centre businesses with a view to having updated analysis this year.
The Energy Efficiency Directive (EED) contains many new measures aimed at further enhancing energy efficiency across society including under Article 12 to enhance the energy efficiency of data centres. Ongoing mandatory data centre energy and sustainability performance reporting across the EU under the EED will enhance data centre sustainability and drive energy efficiency by requiring data collection to report on their energy and water performance. This information is being used to establish an EU wide rating scheme to measure and promote efficiencies in the performance of data centres. The Commission is advancing draft legislation to give effect to this rating scheme including rating labels for individual data centres indicating their power and water use effectiveness.
Government policy continues to support the sustainable growth of data centres and achieving the twin objective of decarbonisation and digitalisation. The Programme for Government contains key commitments such as enhancing data centres’ use of renewable energy sources, energy efficient technology and effective solutions.
151. Deputy Ciarán Ahern asked the Minister for Transport to report on his recent meeting with the Garda Commissioner on road safety; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44753/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI met with the Garda Commissioner on 4 June 2026. I requested this meeting to discuss:
• Road safety and An Garda Síochána (AGS) enforcement actions against anti-social behaviour on our streets and roads.
• AGS plans to increase enforcement against dangerous driving of scramblers and of the prohibition of scrambler use in public places.
The meeting was informed by recent developments and the latest information available, including the number of fatalities on our roads and new road traffic regulations.
On 1 April the Road Traffic (Control of Certain Vehicles) Regulations 2026, known as Grace's Law in memory of Grace Lynch, were signed into law. The regulations implement an explicit ban on scrambler use in any public place and strengthen existing provisions and powers of enforcement by An Garda Síochána.
The meeting facilitated constructive engagement on road safety issues and in particular the growing concern surrounding the illegal and dangerous use of scrambler bikes in communities and across the country. The misuse of these vehicles presents a serious danger to the public. Communities are increasingly affected by reckless driving, danger to public areas and significant risk to pedestrians, cyclist and motorists.
I reaffirmed the Government's commitment to supporting An Garda Síochána in addressing this issue through strengthened regulations and enhanced powers of seizure of these vehicles. The new regulations complete the introduction of provisions in the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023 to tackle the dangerous use of scramblers and bring additional legal clarity by consolidating the disparate existing provisions into a single legislative instrument in respect of scramblers.
The regulations prohibit the use of an off-road motorcycle, such as a scrambler or a quadbike, in any place, except on private land with the written consent of the landowner or use by the landowner. They impose a requirement of consent where restricted vehicles are used on private land and will make enforcement easier.
The mere use of scramblers will now explicitly be an offence, assisting An Garda Síochána operationally by ensuring that members will no longer have to form a reasonable belief about dangerous use.
Road safety remains a central priority for Government and I am committed to progressing measures that improve enforcement capabilities and ensuring safer public spaces for everyone. My Department, in consultation with the Department of Justice, is preparing further regulations to substantially increase the cost of releasing a scrambler following seizure, to reduce the number of seized vehicles that return to the road.
I continue to work closely with the Garda Commissioner and all relevant stakeholders on these matters.
152. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport if a matter in relation to the new EV scrappage scheme (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44807/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe new ICE2EV scrappage scheme is a demand-led and capped pilot scheme. It is intended to address a specific and persistent emissions challenge within the private car fleet: the continued operation of older, highly polluting ICE vehicles.
Eligible applicants can receive €5,000 for the permanent removal of a qualifying ICE vehicle registered in 2013 or earlier. The payment must be used towards the purchase of a new battery electric vehicle. It is additional to the existing €3,500 EV grant administered by the SEAI, bringing total available support up to €8,500 per vehicle.
Applicants must demonstrate on the date of application that the ICE vehicle:
• has been registered in their name within the State for at least 12 months prior to the application;
• holds a valid NCT certificate, or one expired by no more than six months;
• has been taxed and insured for road use during the six months prior to the application.
The requirement for a valid NCT along with tax, insurance and ownership criteria, is intended to ensure the scheme targets vehicles that are currently in active use, supporting the replacement of higher-emitting cars with lower-emission alternatives. The inclusion of a six-month grace period for expired NCT certificates reflects an effort to provide a degree of flexibility, recognising that practical issues such as test scheduling or delays may arise.
The pilot scheme will be reviewed to assess its overall impact and the effectiveness of scrappage as a policy tool.
153. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Transport to provide a progress report in relation to rolling out a scheme of EV charging points at GAA grounds in County Kerry and throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44832/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Shared Island funded Sports Club EV Charging Scheme provides funding to install a network of publicly accessible chargers in communities nationwide through their local sports clubs. Included in the scheme are 219 clubs of which 171 are in Ireland and 48 in Northern Ireland. There are four eligible clubs in Kerry: An Ríocht A.C., Ceann Sibeal - Dingle Golf Links, Killarney Celtic Football Club, and Spa GAA Club. Of the eligible clubs in Kerry, three have received ‘Notification of Commencement’ letters, including the Spa GAA Club.
Overall, 130 clubs have been approved for funding and Grant Agreements issued, and 54 Notifications to commence work issued. Installations works have begun at a number of sports clubs around the country.
154. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Transport the plans in place to increase the number of EV charging points throughout the country and in Cavan Monaghan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44545/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government is fully committed to supporting a significant expansion and modernisation of the EV charging network over the coming years and reaching climate targets. Having an effective and reliable charging network is an essential part of enabling drivers to make the switch to electric vehicles.
The Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) sets binding national targets for all Member States to ensure adequate deployment of alternative fuel infrastructure for the road, rail, maritime and aviation sectors. It also defines unified technical standards and requirements for user access, data sharing and payment systems to ensure consistency and interoperability across the EU. The requirements include minimum power output and the maximum distance allowable between recharging pools (one or more recharging stations in one specific location).
In order to achieve Ireland’s EU targets under AFIR and depending on level of power supplied at charging points, it is expected that there will be 3,200 – 6,210 public chargers required nationally by 2030. AFIR requirements state that there should be 1.3kW of capacity on the national network per BEV and 0.8kW capacity per PHEV.
The National EV Charging Infrastructure Strategy outlines the requirements for publicly accessible charging and installing EV Infrastructure that is capable of meeting user needs. This strategy is currently being revised, and a refreshed strategy for 2026-2028 was published for consultation between February and April.
Further, the Regional and Local EV Charging Network Plan, which focuses on neighbourhood and destination charging locations, will be led by Local Authorities in partnership with both public and private sectors.
Local authorities, including Cavan and Monaghan which have been identified under Region 1 of the plan, will be funded by ZEVI to develop local and regional EV charging network strategies and implementation plans. This process will identify the number of charge points required in each area, including on-street chargers to serve residents without access to private off-street parking.
A range of EV infrastructure have been developed which will help provide another critical link in the overall network for public charging. This includes the delivery of motorway charging hubs; national primary and secondary roads high powered charging; a pilot scheme for EV infrastructure in 15 Local Authorities; and a Shared Island funded Sports Club scheme for EV charging.
155. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Transport whether the National Transport Authority has carried out an assessment of the impact that significant residential development in the Donaghmede, Clongriffin and Belmayne areas has had on demand for public transport services; whether additional bus capacity, increased service frequencies or new routes are planned for these communities in light of continued population growth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44684/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraImproving the accessibility, reliability, and affordability of public transport, while ensuring the system remains well-funded and responsive to passenger needs, is a core priority under the Programme for Government. While my Department sets the overall policy direction and funding framework for the delivery of public transport services nationwide, it is the NTA that have the statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally.
In this context, we secured an unprecedented allocation of €940 million for PSO services in Budget 2026, a significant 43% uplift in the allocation from Budget 2025. This allocation will ensure that existing public transport services can operate reliably and sustainably throughout the year in the face of growing passenger demand and increased operational costs.
With over 363.5 million journeys undertaken in 2025, Ireland’s public transport system is at a pivotal point. Growing passenger demand, urban congestion, and increasing reliance on public transport for commuting and essential travel highlight the need for reliable and sustainable services.
The focus for 2026 is on stabilising and strengthening the PSO position, ensuring services already in place can operate reliably and sustainably, and progressing improvements that are already in train. We are therefore focused on consolidating and strengthening the current network, while progressing improvements already underway, including Phase 7 BusConnects route adjustments and the new Mullingar town service. Within its allocated resources, the NTA will continue to prioritise operational improvements, where possible, taking account of available funding, operational readiness, and driver availability.
In light of the NTA's responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's query to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
156. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Transport the analysis used to determine the recently announced new price threshold for the SEAI electric vehicle purchase grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44712/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government is fully committed to supporting the transition to zero-emission and regularly reviews EV incentives and grants to ensure they are delivering value for money and supporting the delivery of the ambitious target to have 30% of private car fleet switched to electric by 2030.
From 31st July 2026, the maximum eligible vehicle price threshold for the SEAI EV Purchase Grant now be €50,000, rather than €60,000. This change has been made to reflect the increased number of lower priced EVs available on the market, and to target funding for EV transition towards lower price bracket cars, enabling a greater proportion of the funding available within the National Development Plan to support the roll-out of public charging infrastructure. This is in line with the National EV Charging Infrastructure Strategy currently being revised, with a refreshed strategy for 2026-2028 published for consultation between February and April.
The amended price threshold will come into place for new applications received after 31 July 2026. It will not affect applications approved or submitted prior to this date, which will continue to be assessed under the current threshold.
157. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Transport if consideration will be given to providing a Local Link or similar rural transport service to connect residents in Bohola, Swinford and Foxford with essential services such as schools, churches, community centres and local towns, particularly for older people and those without access to private transport; and if funding or pilot schemes are being considered to address this gap in public transport provision. [44723/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister of State at the Department of Transport with special responsibility for Rural Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to rural public transport service provision; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing and monitoring the provision of public passenger transport services nationally, including the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan and TFI Local Link services. In light of the NTA responsibilities I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
158. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport if a bus service will stop at a location (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44726/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and for the scheduling and timetabling of these services in conjunction with the relevant transport operators.
In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
159. Deputy Danny Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport for an update on a request for additional bus stop on existing route (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44729/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and for the scheduling and timetabling of these services in conjunction with the relevant transport operators.
In light of the NTA's responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's query to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
160. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Transport whether his Department is considering the introduction of a mandatory helmet requirement for users of electric scooters; whether any assessment has been carried out regarding the potential road safety benefits of such a measure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44733/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to advise that the Programme for Government 2020 made a commitment to legislating for e-bikes and e-scooters. This was a policy priority for this Government and, since May 2024, e-scooters which are compliant with the regulations made under the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023 are legal to use in public places.
A comprehensive suite of regulations governs the safe use of e-scooters in public places, as below:
The Road Traffic (Electric Scooters) Regulations 2024 (SI 199 of 2024) (www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2024/si/199/made/en/print) provides for technical standards and conditions for safe use, including a minimum age of 16 and a speed limit of 20 km/h.
The Road Traffic (Signs) Regulations 2024 (SI 200 of 2024) (www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2024/si/200/made/en/print) provides that signs for bicycle use will also apply to e-scooters.
The Road Traffic (Traffic and Parking) (Amendment) Regulations 2024 (SI 222 of 2024) (www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2024/si/222/made/en/print) provides for traffic rules, including forbidding use on motorways, footpaths and pedestrianised areas.
The Road Traffic (Use of Powered Personal Transporters) Regulations 2024 (SI 224 of 2024) (www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2024/si/224/made/en/print) provides that other types of PPT, and e-scooters which do not comply with the regulations, will remain illegal to use in public places.
The Road Traffic Act 1994 (Detention of Powered Personal Transporters) Regulations 2024 (SI 223 of 2024) (www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2024/si/223/) gives An Garda Síochána powers to seize and detain non-compliant e-scooters or other types of PPT.
The Road Traffic Act 2010 (Part 3) (Fixed Charge Offences) Regulations 2024 (SI 227 of 2024) (www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2024/si/227/made/en/) provides for fixed charge penalties of €50 for certain e-scooter offences.
The first regulations to allow for the legal use of certain e-scooters and e-bikes were introduced in May 2024. It is appropriate, therefore, to look at the evidence and consider if additional regulation is warranted to promote road safety.
Proposals for updated regulations on e-scooters and e-bikes are being developed and will be subject to Ministerial decision. Requirements for personal protective equipment (PPE) on e-scooters and e-bikes will form part of any consideration. The introduction of mandatory PPE for users of pedal bicycles is outside the scope of the current review.
161. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Transport the NTA's plans to reroute the 24-bus route onto Beneavin Road; and if a timeline will be provided. [44743/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and for the scheduling and timetabling of these services in conjunction with the relevant transport operators.
In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
162. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Transport if further changes are planned for the F spine routes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44744/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and for the scheduling and timetabling of these services in conjunction with the relevant transport operators.
The network redesign as part of BusConnects Dublin will improve the existing bus network by providing high frequency spines and new local, orbital and radial routes. Orbital routes are a really important part of the new design as they offer an efficient way for passengers to travel without needing to pass through the city centre.
New bus services in Dublin are already being delivered as part of BusConnects. Since 2021, we have rolled out the first seven phases of the network redesign in Dublin.
In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
163. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Transport if individuals on disability allowance will be considered for enhanced supports for the EV scrappage pilot scheme; the supports available for people on disability allowance to assist in the purchasing of electric vehicles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44745/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe new ICE2EV scheme is a demand-led and capped at €10m. It is intended to address a specific and persistent emissions challenge within the private car fleet: the continued operation of older, highly polluting ICE vehicles, particularly among households that will face financial barriers to switching to EVs.
Eligible applicants can receive €5,000 for the permanent removal of a qualifying ICE vehicle only registered in 2013 or earlier. The payment must be used towards the purchase of a new battery electric vehicle. It is additional to the existing €3,500 EV grant administered by the SEAI, bringing total available support up to €8,500 per vehicle.
Those eligible for the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme are also eligible for the SEAI EV purchase grant and the scrappage scheme, where they meet the qualifying criteria.
The pilot scheme will be reviewed to assess its overall impact and the effectiveness of scrappage as a policy tool.
164. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Transport if the EV scrappage pilot scheme will include the purchase of second-hand electric vehicles; the Government schemes in place to assist with the purchase of second hand electric vehicles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44746/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe ICE2EV Scheme will launch on 1 July and be administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). It is a targeted measure to reduce emissions, by removing ICE vehicles aged over 13 years from Ireland’s private car fleet and replacing them with new battery EVs. This approach maximises emissions reductions by ensuring the most polluting vehicles are directly replaced with zero-emission alternatives, supporting faster decarbonisation of the fleet.
A key objective here is to increase the overall number EVs on the road relative to ICE vehicles. Apart from the policy consideration, extending eligibility to second-hand EVs would raise a number of practical considerations, including the risk of double granting, where public funding could effectively subsidise the same vehicle more than once across its lifecycle, as well as distorting the second hand car market between dealerships and private individual-to-individual sales.
Current incentives to support the continued transition to electric vehicles and for the rollout of electric vehicle charging infrastructure include:
•A purchase grant for battery electric vehicles (BEVs);
•A Home Charger purchase grant scheme;
•VRT relief of up to €5,000 for the purchase of BEVs;
•eSPSV grant scheme – a grant for taxi drivers to make the switch to an EV, including wheelchair accessible vehicles;
•ZEHDV grant scheme – a grant for HDVs to bridge the gap between a low emission vehicle and a fossil fuel vehicle; and
•Low rate of annual motor tax.
EV incentives and grants are reviewed regularly to ensure that they are delivering value for money and supporting delivery of EV targets.
While the second-hand EV market remains at an early stage, the transition from early adopters to the mainstream market will increase the supply of second-hand vehicles, which is essential to making the transition to lower-carbon transport accessible to a wider range of households.
165. Deputy Joe Neville asked the Minister for Transport the measures his Department have put in place to ensure that there is reliability and transparency on public transport bus routes such as the X27 and 120; the implications there are on the NTA when bus routes do not run correctly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44769/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and for the scheduling and timetabling of these services in conjunction with the relevant transport operators, in this case, Dublin Bus and Go Ahead.
The performance of all public transport operators is monitored by the NTA as part of the contractual arrangements in place between it and the operators. These contractual arrangements allow for not just the monitoring of performance by the NTA and the publication by it of annual performance reports, but importantly, the contracts also allow for the imposition of financial penalties where performance does not meet the required standard.
The NTA regularly meets with each transport operator to review performance of the routes under contract with the NTA and agree necessary interventions aimed at improving performance, which are implemented subject to operational readiness and the availability of resources, including buses, drivers and funding.
In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
