USB-C charging rollout needed across public transport says Ward

Fine Gael TD Barry Ward has said that Dublin’s bus network should be upgraded to include USB-C charging ports.

As it stands, the majority of chargers available on Dublin’s buses are USB-A charging points, but USB-C has become more standardised across the European Union.

The Dún Laoghaire TD said that Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien needs to engage with public transport operators to upgrade phone charging infrastructure on buses.

Ward said, “in recent years, we have seen the proliferation of USB-A charging facilities across bus services and other public transport. This was hugely welcome at the time and is still used by many passengers, but the need to upgrade these charging ports has become increasingly pressing.”

Ward noted that more and more commuters now carry devices which use USB-C, meaning the current infrastructure is becoming outdated. 

He said upgrading the ports now would be a “future-proofing” measure, as well as a cost-effective way to improve the passenger experience.

“Our public transport system needs to keep pace with technology,” he said.

“I fully accept that this won’t happen overnight, but I am calling on the Minister for Transport to engage with the main public transport operators to get things moving.”

Ward said that he is in regular communication with commuters who are seeking upgrades to charging infrastructure on buses, and this is becoming more common as schools and third-level education return to the classrooms.

“If a targeted fund from the Department of Transport is required, then this needs to be progressed to ensure our public transport fleet keeps up with the needs of its passengers,” he said.