Greens seek roll-out of additional EV charging points in Cork city

The Green Party in Cork have welcomed the new all-electric car provided to the city’s lord mayor, but said that this needs to be followed through with delivery of the city’s electric vehicle charging strategy.

Earlier this month, Lord Mayor Dan Boyle became the first Green Party lord mayor to receive an all-electric vehicle from the Ford Motor Company.

The gift of the car to the city, which is used for official purposes, is an annual tradition associated with the historical presence of the Ford factory close to City Hall over 100 years ago, and for the last four years, electric vehicles have been provided to lords mayor.

Green Party councillor for Cork City North East, Oliver Moran, said: “The current lord mayor has taken a markedly different approach to use of the car compared to previous office holders.

“He’s much more conscious that for short journeys, like those in the city centre, the car should be left where it is in favour of walking, cycling and public transport.

“There are other occasions where a car is necessary for the office and it’s important the city shows leadership in the car being an all-electric one.

“We need to show commitment for the public who are considering switching to electric vehicles, especially when that appears to be waning.” However, he added: “That’s got to be followed through with practical commitments too.

“The most common demand from residents when it comes to confidence around electric vehicles is for more charging locations.

“The city agreed an ambitious EV charging strategy in June.

“We need to link accepting this car with following through on that strategy and now deliver the infrastructure for everyone throughout our city.”

The €22m plan to install almost 700 publicly available electric vehicle (EV) chargers at a network of new charging stations across Cork city by 2030, with the potential for over 60 charging stations to be in place before the end of this year, was adopted by council in June.

It comes as analysis by Geotab published at the end of last year found that Cork City Council has electrified more of its fleet compared to any other local authority, with 28% of its transportation comprising electric vehicles.