Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2026
170. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Transport if the NTA have considered the short-term use of private electric-vehicle charging facilities available in Galway city to facilitate the charging of Galway's new electric bus fleet, while the purpose-built charging facility is being developed at Galway bus depot; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47138/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including the provision and upgrade of public bus fleets and 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 working days.
Pending a more detailed response, I acknowledge that there have been delays to the installation of charging infrastructure in bus depots, which has in turn prevented operators from absorbing electric buses into their fleet. However, due to recent progress made in installing electric charging guns in depots, buses currently in storage will enter service across the remainder of 2026 and early 2027. Moreover, the NTA will shortly finalise a procurement framework with suppliers of bus charging infrastructure to expedite future installations across the country.
