Brendan Griffin
Ceist:71. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Transport the status of the N22 Farranfore to Lisivigeen bypass project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62406/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraRoad Projects
Ceisteanna (71)
Freagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 and in line with the National Development Plan (NDP), the planning, design and construction of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Public Spending Code and the necessary statutory approvals. In this context, TII is best placed to advise you.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
Public Transport
Ceisteanna (72)
Paul McAuliffe
Ceist:72. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Transport when he expects the business case to be made for the metro north project by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55827/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The MetroLink project is currently at Decision Gate 1: Approval in Principle under the Public Spending Code.
The key document at Decision Gate 1 is the Preliminary Business Case and a draft Preliminary Business Case was submitted to my Department for initial review in line with the requirements of the Public Spending Code. I understand an updated Preliminary Business Case will be resubmitted very shortly and, subject to its compliance with the requirements of the Public Spending Code, I will then be in a position to seek Government approval for the project.
Approval at Decision Gate 1 will permit MetroLink enter the statutory planning system. At a project level I understand work is ongoing to complete all the necessary planning, environmental and property referencing documentation required for a planning application, with an expectation that this work will be completed by Q2 next year.
Public Transport
Ceisteanna (73)
Darren O'Rourke
Ceist:73. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport the number of submissions that were received under the Connecting Ireland public consultation; if he will front-load funding for this scheme noting the findings of the Climate Change Advisory Council annual review which found that there are a number of critical gaps in implementation in which national policy and ambition are not translating into the necessary action needed to meet emission reduction targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62400/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.
It is the National Transport Authority (NTA) that has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally. The NTA also has national responsibility for integrated local and rural transport, including management of the Rural Transport Programme which operates under the TFI Local Link brand.
The Connecting Ireland plan is a major national public transport initiative developed by the NTA with the aim of increasing public transport connectivity, particularly for people living outside the major cities and towns. It will significantly increase both the number of routes and the frequency of existing services right across the country. The NTA’s Connecting Ireland public consultation ran from 2nd November 2021 to 10 December 2021. My Department allocated €5.6m from Budget 2022 to the NTA so that as early as next year the NTA can begin investing in these services.
I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
Question No. 74 answered with Question No. 61.
Aviation Industry
Ceisteanna (75)
Cathal Crowe
Ceist:75. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Transport if the Government will consider introducing incentives in order that Ireland can position itself as a world leader in pioneering sustainable aviation. [62251/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As a small open economy on the periphery of Europe, the aviation sector is critical for the movement of Ireland's goods and people. It generally underpins our economic development, the expansion of our tourism sector and in particular our success in attracting foreign direct investment. Nevertheless, the contribution of aviation to climate change is undeniable and the need to move towards a more sustainable model is now fully accepted across the industry.
Sustainable aviation is a very broad term that encompasses many facets of the aviation industry from greener airports, the use of sustainable aviation fuels, improved aircraft technology and more efficient air traffic management.
Whilst my Department does not have any plans at present to introduce incentives in relation to sustainable aviation, it is considering strategies to promote the sustainability of the industry through the EU Fit for 55 package of proposals which includes, inter alia, measures to increase the uptake of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and proposed amendments to the aviation aspects of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme.
For example, Ireland strongly supports the ReFuelEU Initiative which will mandate fuel suppliers to blend increasing levels of SAF with kerosene over the coming decades. Consultations are already ongoing to ascertain the impact the proposed mandated levels of SAF will have on the industry, and although Ireland currently imports over 90% of kerosene, it is possible that as the blending mandates increase, production of sustainable and synthetic aviation fuel may take place domestically.
Separately, Ireland is also a keen proponent of the proposed Reform of the Single European Skies (SES) Regulatory Framework which will modernise the management of European airspace and establish more sustainable and efficient flightpaths. This can reduce air transport carbon emissions by up to 10%.
As a ‘technology taker’ Ireland does not have an indigenous aircraft or engine manufacturing industry and is unlikely to play a significant role in the development of new aircraft technology. It does, however, have the potential for mass generation of green energy and therefore green hydrogen. As outlined in the Climate Action Plan, green hydrogen will be an important tool in permanently decarbonising transport, including through the use of blended Sustainable Aviation Fuels and there may be opportunities for Ireland in this space as the technology develops over the coming years.
The Renewable Fuels for Transport Policy Statement sets out a roadmap for the supply and use of renewable fuels in transport energy, including updates to the Biofuel Obligation Scheme. While sustainable aviation fuels are not obligated under the Biofuels Obligation Scheme, fuel suppliers that place SAF on the market in Ireland can apply for biofuel obligation scheme certificates for this. Additionally, the Department of Transport intends to carry out a review of the supply of renewable transport fuels in Ireland, such as biofuels, advanced biofuels, e-fuels, synthetic fuels, green hydrogen and biogas in 2022.
The Government has put in place a range of funding measures to assist our airports with regard to climate resilience, including through the Regional Airports Programme (RAP) 2021-2025. The previous RAP provided funding for safety and security projects, however the 2021-2025 Programme now includes funding for capital projects with a sustainability focus. The funding is aimed at helping expedite airports’ efforts to reduce emissions in line with the 2021-2025 Programme’s goal to move towards carbon neutrality. The COVID-19 Regional State Airports Programme 2021 also supported projects incorporating measures to support sustainability.
More generally, the Climate Action Fund was established on a statutory basis in 2020. At least €500 million will be available from this Fund over the period to 2027 to support projects, initiatives and research across the economy that contribute to the achievement of Ireland’s climate and energy targets, and goals. To date, over €140 million has been committed from the Climate Action Fund for a range of projects. Opportunities to secure support from the Climate Action Fund will also be available during 2022, particularly in relation to projects and initiatives that are aligned with the recently published Climate Action Plan.
In relation to other possible funding opportunities, the European Union's Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) supports the development of Europe's transport, energy and digital services networks. Funding is awarded on a competitive basis and information on open calls under this programme and others is available on the EU's funding and tenders portal. Likewise the EU Innovation Fund which is financed from revenue from the auctioning of 450 million allowances from 2020 to 2030 under the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), aims to fund innovative technology that delivers the avoidance of Green House Gas emissions. In Ireland this fund is administered by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications.
Road Projects
Ceisteanna (76)
Imelda Munster
Ceist:76. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Transport his plans to deliver the port access northern cross route; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62107/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Louth County Council is the statutory planning and road authority for its area of responsibility. It is, therefore, a matter for Louth County Council to consider options regarding the development of the proposed Drogheda Northern Cross Route (PANCR) scheme.
My Department met with the Council earlier this year to outline the Public Spending Code project appraisal requirements for any proposed transport scheme, including the need for the preparation of a Strategic Assessment Report.
While no funding application has been submitted to the Department in relation to the Drogheda Northern Cross Route project, officials from my Department are available to engage further with Louth County Council if the Council wishes to do so as part of its consideration of options for sharing the cost of the proposed road.
I should, however, note that the primary focus for capital investment under the regional and local road grant programme in the period to 2025 will be the maintenance and renewal of the regional and local road network, targeted safety/minor schemes together with the implementation of a number of the larger strategic regional and local road projects which were included in the original NDP and which are now at or near construction.
Road Network
Ceisteanna (77)
Martin Browne
Ceist:77. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Transport his views on the necessity to ensure that the development of the proposed strategic rail freight terminal at Limerick Junction, as referred to in Rail Freight 2040, takes into account the impact this may have in terms of traffic usage on the N24; and his views on whether due consideration of this should also be taken into account in the development of the N24 or a bypass of Tipperary town. [62311/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I agree that issues such as those raised by the Deputy should be taken into account when considering the development of any future rail freight terminal at Limerick Junction.
In relation to the N24 specifically the National Development Plan includes the proposed N24 Cahir to Limerick Junction Project, which includes a bypass of Tipperary Town.
This scheme is among several proposed major national road projects identified in the new NDP for prioritisation through pre-appraisal and early planning. A bypass of Tipperary town will be considered by TII for prioritisation in this context, particularly having regard for the benefits that a bypass could provide to the town and the facilitation of one of the key national strategic outcomes in the National Planning Framework, Compact Growth. Lower traffic volumes in the town may also improve road safety. This project may also provide the opportunity to provide better connectivity with public transport through direct access to the train stations in Cahir and Limerick Junction, which would encourage the use of public transport in the area.
The N24 Project Team in Transport Infrastructure Ireland are currently determining the Preferred Route Option for the project. It is envisaged that a public display of the Preferred Route Option will take place by the end of Quarter 1 2022.
Electric Vehicles
Ceisteanna (78)
Steven Matthews
Ceist:78. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Transport his plans regarding supports and incentives for persons living in apartments and other multi-unit dwellings to install chargers for electric vehicles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61602/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Government’s policy regarding the increased usage of Electric Vehicles (EVs) is primarily driven by the Climate Action Plan which sets a target of 945,000 EVs by 2030.
Home charging is considered the primary method of charging for the majority of EVs in Ireland and is a convenient, cost effective and environmentally friendly means of charging, especially when using night rate electricity. It accounts for circa 80% of EV charging sessions and will continue to be the primary method of charging in the future.
The Government earlier this year introduced a requirement that new buildings and those undergoing substantial renovation works will have to include charging points for electric vehicles if they have more than 10 car parking spaces.
The EV Home Charger Grant Scheme has been in operation since January 2018 to support the installation of home chargers for purchasers of new and second-hand BEVs and PHEVs. The grant provides generous support towards the full cost of installation of a home charger up to a maximum of €600. As regards existing apartment buildings, work is currently being progressed to expand the EV home charger grant to include shared parking in apartment blocks and similar developments. My Department is working closely with the SEAI and expects a scheme for apartments to open in the near future.
Question No. 79 answered with Question No. 25.
Electric Vehicles
Ceisteanna (80)
Jennifer Whitmore
Ceist:80. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Transport if he has examined the potential of retrofitting cars to electric vehicles as part of the ambition to have 1 million such vehicles on the road by 2030; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61341/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Providing a sustainable, low-carbon transport system is a key priority of my Department. The Programme for Government commits to 7% average annual emissions reduction to 2030; ultimately, the goal is for a zero-emission mobility system by 2050. Electrification will be key to achieving this objective in the transport sector.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are the most prominent transport mitigation measure in the Climate Action Plan, and Ireland has set an ambitious target of 945,000 EVs on our roads by 2030. This target is challenging but indicates the scale of the transformation that is needed across all sectors if Ireland is to achieve its climate targets in the coming years.
The Department is aware of initiatives to retrofit internal combustion engine cars to electric vehicles, and is giving the matter active consideration. Innovations that provide reliable solutions for people willing to transition to electric vehicles are to be welcomed, particularly if they provide options for people who might be unable to purchase a new vehicle.
There are various measures to consider when determining the effectiveness of this type of initiative. Department officials are actively engaging with car conversion companies on this matter.
Bus Services
Ceisteanna (81)
Holly Cairns
Ceist:81. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Transport his plans to install new bus shelters in County Cork in the next year. [62345/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
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 of bus stops and bus shelters.
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.
Park-and-Ride Facilities
Ceisteanna (82)
Catherine Connolly
Ceist:82. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Question No. 162 of 4 November 2021, the progress made to date on the identification of suitable sites for park and ride in Galway; the details of the initial review being conducted on existing public transport services available along each corridor, as referred to in the National Transport Authority response to the question; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62327/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
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 Park and Ride facilities.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, and their previous reply, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for any further updates that may be available. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
Electric Vehicles
Ceisteanna (83)
Verona Murphy
Ceist:83. Deputy Verona Murphy asked the Minister for Transport the measures his Department proposes to introduce to assist persons in making the transition to electric vehicles in terms of real affordability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62291/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Providing a sustainable, low-carbon transport system is a key priority of my Department. The Programme for Government commits to 7% average annual emissions reduction to 2030; ultimately, the goal is for a zero-emission mobility system by 2050. Electrification will be key to achieving this objective in the transport sector.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are the most prominent transport mitigation measure in the Climate Action Plan, and Ireland has set an ambitious target of 945,000 EVs on our roads by 2030. This target is challenging but indicates the scale of the transformation that is needed across all sectors if Ireland is to achieve its climate targets in the coming years.
Considerable progress has been made, as a result of the work of the Low Emission Vehicle Taskforce, to ensure that conditions and policies are in place to support citizens in making greener vehicle choices. As the Deputy will be aware, a comprehensive suite of measures is available to EV drivers, including purchase grants for private car owners and taxi drivers, VRT relief, reduced tolls, home charger grants, favourable motor and BIK tax rates, as well as a comprehensive charging network. These measures have collectively contributed to increased take up of EVs in Ireland in recent years, albeit from a low base, to over 47,500 now.
In addition, my Department convened the Electric Vehicle Policy Pathway (EVPP) Working Group to produce a roadmap to achieving the 2030 EV target. The EVPP Working Group comprises senior officials and has considered regulatory, financial, and taxation policies to help drive a significant ramp-up in passenger EVs and electric van sales.
The recommendations of the EVPP Working Group were approved by Government and the full report is available online.
The Working Group examined the issue of price parity between EVs and ICE vehicles. The Report finds that there is divergence within the research community as to when TCO in economic terms cost parity will be achieved with some studies estimating that it is likely to occur in the middle of this decade, driven by falling battery prices and savings due to economies of scale, while others argue that the cross-over point may not occur until towards the end of the decade.
In the meantime, in order to support the transition to EVs, the Group recommended that:
- The generous suite of EV supports already in place in Ireland should be retained until at least end-2022. Additional measures to further incentivise EVs and/or disincentivise fossil fuelled vehicles will also be necessary. Cost-effective, targeted policy supports should continue to be developed and strengthened over the coming years; and
- An Office for Low Emission Vehicles should be established, as a matter of priority, to co-ordinate the implementation of existing and future EV measures and infrastructure. The new Office should also take charge of developing and launching an extensive communication and engagement campaign, whole of Government in coverage, to drive the availability and understanding of key information regarding EVs, tailored to household, business and public sector consumers.
Overall, the Department is acutely aware that the cost of electric vehicles remains an issue for many consumers. To this end, electric vehicle policy is being kept under continuous review to endeavour to make low emission vehicles affordable.
Question No. 84 answered with Question No. 61.
Aviation Industry
Ceisteanna (85)
Cathal Crowe
Ceist:85. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Transport when his Department will begin preparing a new national aviation policy; and if he will provide an indicative timeframe for the completion of same. [62250/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The National Aviation Policy (NAP) was published in August 2015. It was followed by two progress reports published in 2016 and 2019. The principal goals of the policy are to enhance Ireland's connectivity, to foster the growth of aviation enterprise and to maximise the contribution of aviation to Ireland's sustainable economic growth and development.
These objectives remain valid but clearly much has changed since 2015 in terms of the overall challenges for the aviation sector in Ireland with a heightened focus on environmental sustainability and of course the Covid-19 pandemic.
Before the Covid-19 crisis, officials at the Department of Transport had commenced scoping work on a revised version of the National Aviation Policy. This work was paused during 2020 to focus on the resilience of the aviation sector to survive the crisis. Regrettably this crisis has persisted far longer than had been anticipated and the effects on the aviation industry have been profound. Work on a new National Aviation Policy will begin in 2022. A key part of the policy development will be a comprehensive public consultation process as well as close engagement with the aviation industry through the structures of the National Civil Aviation Development Forum.
Public Transport
Ceisteanna (86)
Bernard Durkan
Ceist:86. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the extent to which all public transport is in the course of decarbonisation; the achievements to date in this regard; the projections for the future, including timelines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62302/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. In that regard I have ensured very strong policy commitments have been made in relation to transitioning our publicly subvented bus fleets to zero emission vehicles, expanding electrified commuter rail services and using the Strategic Rail Review to identify an appropriate pathway to decarbonising inter-urban rail.
Noting the NTA's statutory responsibility or the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including procurement for the PSO bus and rail fleets, 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.
Question No. 87 answered with Question No. 52.
Road Projects
Ceisteanna (88)
Christopher O'Sullivan
Ceist:88. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport the status of the Bandon relief road; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62411/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 and in line with the National Development Plan (NDP), the planning, design and construction of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Public Spending Code and the necessary statutory approvals. In this context, TII is best placed to advise you.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.