475. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Transport if practical solutions such as the temporary use of low-profile cable protectors across a public footpath during charging, the installation of wall-mounted overhead charging arms to suspend cables above pedestrian height, the installation of recessed cable channels within footpaths, similar to systems being trialled in other jurisdictions currently permitted for those without access to off-street parking, are currently permitted in lieu of the Private Wires Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42905/26]

The Government is fully committed to the significant expansion and modernisation of the EV charging network in the coming years. A reliable and accessible charging network is essential to enabling drivers to make the transition to electric mobility.

Home charging is, and is expected to remain, the primary means by which most drivers charge their vehicles. Public charging infrastructure plays a critical complementary role, not only in supporting enroute journeys, but also in ensuring that those who cannot charge at home are not disadvantaged and can participate fully in the transition to electric vehicles.

As such, a range of charging options will be required to support drivers without access to off-street parking. These include neighbourhood charging hubs and destination charge points, en-route charging along the National Roads Network, and fast-charging hubs for taxis. Neighbourhood charging, in particular, can provide households without private driveways with access to charge points within their local area.

In parallel, the Regional and Local EV Charging Network Plan sets out a pathway for the accelerated delivery of public destination and neighbourhood charging infrastructure, led by Local Authorities. This process will identify the number and type of charge points required in each area, including provision specifically for residents without access to private off-street parking. While these strategies are being finalised, ZEVI is supporting pilot projects across a number of Local Authorities to deliver charging infrastructure at locations that meet multiple user needs.

The Government recognises that the absence of off-street parking presents a particular challenge for some households. Addressing this barrier is a key priority, and there remains a need to address multiple considerations in this regard, including planning consents, road / pavement opening, and the laying of electrical cables across public thoroughfares. Work is underway to introduce new legislation establishing a regulated private wires regime. This will enable appropriate charging solutions to be deployed safely in residential settings where direct home charging is not currently possible.

The introduction of a private wires regime remains a priority for the Government. The General Scheme of the Private Wires Bill was approved by Government on 16 December 2025, and the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment has since been engaging with the Office of Parliamentary Counsel to progress drafting of the legislation. Pre-legislative scrutiny has been completed by the Joint Committee on Climate, Environment and Energy, with its report published on 22 April. It is intended that the Bill will complete its passage through the Oireachtas in due course.