Major NTA conference in Laois discusses future of sustainable transport

The event brought together private bus operators from across the midlands to discuss the future of sustainable bus transport.

Co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the EU Just Transition Fund (EU JTF) programme, the event provided essential guidance and consultation for private operators in the region who are interested in transitioning their fleets to electric vehicles, said a spokesperson.

The event was coordinated with engineering consultant, SYSTRA, while representatives from Bus Éireann also contributed insights and case studies.

The EU Just Transition Fund is a key pillar of the European Green Deal, designed to support regions and sectors in the shift toward a climate-neutral economy. The electrification of transportation is a key pillar of Ireland's EU JTF programme.

In Ireland, the EU Just Transition Fund focuses on assisting the wider midlands region as it moves away from its dependence on fossil fuels. The fund in the midlands is being managed by the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly (EMRA).

The Laois conference was a vital part of that wider strategy, said a spokesperson. "Through expert-led panels, operators engaged with specialists in electric bus infrastructure, civil engineering, planning, and fleet electrification. The event also highlighted the technical and financial support available to operators.

"This initiative is part of a broader strategy by the NTA, in collaboration with the Department of Transport and the Department of Environment, Climate, and Communications, to ensure that transport operators in the region have access to the resources they need to make the transition to electric fleets a reality."

Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan said: "The Just Transition Fund is a vital and practical tool to protect livelihoods and ensure that no one is left behind in this journey to climate neutrality.

"Ireland has far-reaching and ambitious climate goals. However, these are irrelevant if there are not practical and equally ambitious supports available also to foster this transition so that it works for people and communities everywhere.

"By supporting the midlands region, we are focusing on communities and local businesses that are among those most impacted by this transition. We want to ensure that their future is a better one, with thriving communities that are founded on a strong green economy, innovative social enterprise and a better quality of life."

Anne Graham, CEO of the NTA commented on the significance of the support for bus operators: "A top priority for the NTA over the past decade has been the decarbonisation of its fleet and we have made great strides in this.

"However, for our climate targets to be a success, change must occur throughout both public and private businesses. Private bus operators are key players in delivering local and regional transport services.

"This event has provided a platform for them to receive expert advice on fleet electrification, and the support we're offering through the EU Just Transition Fund will ensure that these operators can feel supported both financially and logically to make a seamless transition to cleaner, more sustainable vehicles."

Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald, Cathaoirleach of the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly (EMRA), which is the managing authority of the fund, emphasised the local impact stating: "The EU JTF is about more than just financial support — it's about fostering resilience and long-term sustainability in communities throughout the midlands.

"By helping local bus operators transition to greener operations, we are building a future where environmental responsibility and economic growth go hand in hand. EMRA's collaboration with the NTA in delivering this support is welcomed.

"I was very proud to see so many local operators engaged in the conference and I look forward to EMRA consulting with them as they avail of the support offered."