Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 December 2023
35. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Transport the number of plug-in hybrid buses purchased for the public service obligation fleet in each of the past six years and to date in 2023; and the number of fully electric buses purchased for the fleet in each of the past six years and to date in 2023, in tabular form. [55556/23]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including the provision of the national Public Service Obligation bus fleet.
As part of various actions to address climate change needs, the NTA intends to transition its urban State subsidised bus services to zero-emission bus fleet. The intention is that new zero-emission fleet (battery-electric) will replace the older diesel-powered fleet on an incremental basis, as the existing buses reach the end of their efficient operational life.
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 days.
