203. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on double-decker buses due to be deployed across the State in 2026 and 2027; when they will be deployed in Galway specifically; and if he will advise on the routes that will be deployed. [67591/26]

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, upgrade and electrification of public transport, such as bus fleets.

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, the electrification of the bus fleet is a key part of the BusConnects programmes and in our investment in public transport across the country more generally, helping to make a sustainable mode of travel even more sustainable.

As of today, 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.

There are 90 zero-emission battery-electric buses awaiting deployment pending the bringing on stream of charging infrastructure, of which 36 are destined for the GDA and 54 destined for Galway. Plans are in place for all Dublin-bound buses to be in service by the end of this year, while all buses destined for Galway will enter service across late 2026 and early 2027.