I propose to take Questions Nos. 171 and 177 together.
As 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, upgrade and electrification of public transport, such as bus fleets.
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, the electrification of the bus fleet is a key part of the BusConnects programmes and in our investment in public transport across the country more generally, helping to make a sustainable mode of travel even more sustainable.
As of today, over 250 battery-electric buses have been accepted into the Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann fleets across the country, including the operation of our first fully electric services in Limerick and Athlone.
There are 98 zero-emission battery-electric buses awaiting deployment pending the bringing on stream of charging infrastructure, of which 56 are destined for the GDA and 42 destined for Galway. Plans are in place for all Dublin-bound buses to be in service by the end of this year, while all buses destined for Galway will enter service across late 2026 and early 2027.
It is important to note that delayed absorption of these buses is not reducing overall bus system capacity, as older diesel buses are continuing in operation for longer to ensure continuity of service.
Implementation of further phases of electrification at existing bus depots will be greatly assisted by the NTA's new Electric Bus Charging Infrastructure framework contract to be awarded shortly.
