An enhanced grant support scheme would make EVs a more viable and attractive option
The government should introduce an enhanced grant scheme for electric vehicles (EVs) for those living in rural Ireland, according to Social Democrats Climate Spokesperson Jennifer Whitmore.
“Many people in rural Ireland have no transport option other than their private car. If the government is to have any hope of reaching its target of nearly 1 million EVs on the road by 2030, then it must target supports where they are most needed.
“Public transport is not an option for many in rural area and they are therefore disproportionately reliant on their private cars. Providing people in rural Ireland with better incentives to switch to EVs makes sense, not just for individual purchasers, but for the State, as we strive to reduce transport emissions by 51pc by 2030.
“An enhanced grant support scheme would make EVs a more viable and attractive option for many in rural Ireland who are currently priced out of the existing scheme or are wary of making the switch.
“The introduction of an enhanced grant scheme does not mean that public transport options in rural areas should not be expanded and improved. The government recently announced a new rural public transport initiative, Connecting Ireland, which is welcome.
“However, the total allocation for Connecting Ireland next year is just €5.6 million. Investment in this scheme must be front loaded to make the long overdue improvements that are necessary.
“If the government wants to get as many petrol and diesel cars off the road as quickly as possible, then it must introduce an enhanced grant scheme in tandem with increased investment in public transport connectivity.”
5 November, 2021
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