Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 March 2021
377. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport the status of the Programme for Government commitment to require that all new urban buses be electric hybrid or electric; if this plan has begun; the percentage of new buses that are hybrid or electric since March 2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15665/21]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. As the Deputy is aware, the Programme for Government makes a commitment that all new urban buses will be electric hybrid or electric. This commitment reflects the technologies currently available in the area of urban fleets as opposed to those fleets which service longer regional and rural routes.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) has certain statutory responsibilities for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including the procurement of the national bus fleet.
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.
