345. Deputy Peter Roche asked the Minister for Transport the measures being taken by Government to increase the number of electric buses in operation across the State; the proportion of the public bus fleet currently powered by electricity; and the plans to increase charging facilities for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59061/26]

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 and upgrade of public bus fleets and bus depots.

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 working days.

Pending a more detailed response, I note that there are over 250 battery-electric buses have been accepted into the Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann fleets across the country, including the operation of our first fully electric services in Limerick and Athlone. The electrification of the bus fleet is a key part of the BusConnects programmes in the five cities and in our investment in public transport across the country more generally, helping to make a sustainable mode of travel even more sustainable.

Implementation of further phases of electrification at existing bus depots will be greatly assisted by the NTA's new Electric Bus Charging Infrastructure framework contract, which has been finalised and will be formally awarded shortly.