343. Deputy Johnny Guirke asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on the roll out of EV chargers in County Meath; the details and locations of these chargers; his plans for the introduction of further chargers in this location, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29689/26]

The Government is fully committed to supporting a significant expansion and modernisation of the EV charging network over the coming years. Having an effective and reliable charging network is an essential part of enabling drivers to make the switch to electric vehicles.

While over 80% of charging is expected to happen at home and will address most users' charging needs, there is a need for a seamless public charging network to provide for situations or instances where home charging is not possible.

The latest data provided by Charge Point Operators (CPO's) shows that in Co. Meath there are approximately 39 publicly accessible charging pools, with 127 charging points across these pools.

The Department of Transport is finalising a Data Strategy and associated data platforms that will, once in place, enhance the Department’s ability to monitor this infrastructure more accurately.

The Regional and Local EV Charging Network Plan provides a pathway for the accelerated delivery of public destination and neighbourhood charging and will be led by Local Authorities. (Meath had been identified under Region 4 of this plan, with counties Wicklow, Louth, and Regional Lead Kildare). This process will identify the number of charge points required in each area.

While strategies are being finalised, ZEVI is funding pilot infrastructure projects in a number of Local Authorities, including Duleek Courthouse and Oldcastle in Meath, so as not to delay rollout and to provide charging infrastructure at locations that meet multiple user needs.

The EV Recharging Infrastructure Light Duty Vehicle (LDV) En-Route Grant Schemes administered by Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), will significantly expand high power charging availability across the national, regional and local road network, creating a more convenient and reliable system for drivers nationwide. Each recharging pool will provide fast and ultra-fast recharging points, so that people can charge their EVs quickly. Illustrative maps and location listings of the successful applicants are outlined on the TII website.

Below is a list in tabular form of current LDV scheme locations in Co. Meath

The Shared Island funded Sports Club EV Charging Scheme also provides funding to install a network of publicly accessible chargers in communities nationwide through their local sports clubs. There are 9 eligible clubs in Meath.